PUBLIC OPINION > Don't Talk Politics at Work
SodaHead Living
2012/09/11 20:00:00
With the presidential election just a couple months away, political conversations are almost unavoidable. But is it ever inappropriate to engage in political discourse? What about the workplace? Is that simply an exercise in free speech and open communication, or a recipe for disaster? We asked the public if it's OK to talk politics at work.
Open political discussion is essential in a democratic country, but about two-thirds of people think that bringing it into the workplace is a bad idea. Most people agree that there's a fine line between a discussion and an argument, but with a topic as volatile as politics, a calm discussion could very quickly turn sour. Some spoke from experience. It could turn out fine, but it's usually not worth the risk.
Mind the Moderates
Conservatives and liberals voted similarly on this issue -- 40% and 37% were OK with workplace discussions, respectively -- but voters who fell in the middle were less than enthused. Only 22% of moderates think it's OK to discuss politics at work. It would follow that people who call themselves moderates are less confrontational.
Men Might Go for It
Men were a bit more likely to condone politics in the workplace. Since men are typically a little more competitive, it would make sense that they're more eager or willing to get into it over healthcare and the economy, but ultimately it was only an 11% difference -- about a third of men, compared to about a quarter of women.
Age Is Not an Issue
There weren't actually that many other demographics that seemed to correlate with response. In fact, the age group most willing to talk politics at work (45-54) was only a few years older than the age group least willing to talk politics at work (35-44). Teens were more willing than most, though not by much.
If you'd like to vote on this question, dig deeper into the demographics, or engage in existing discussion about the topic, visit our poll about politics in the workplace. We'd love to hear from you!
Mind the Moderates
Conservatives and liberals voted similarly on this issue -- 40% and 37% were OK with workplace discussions, respectively -- but voters who fell in the middle were less than enthused. Only 22% of moderates think it's OK to discuss politics at work. It would follow that people who call themselves moderates are less confrontational.Men Might Go for It
Men were a bit more likely to condone politics in the workplace. Since men are typically a little more competitive, it would make sense that they're more eager or willing to get into it over healthcare and the economy, but ultimately it was only an 11% difference -- about a third of men, compared to about a quarter of women.Age Is Not an Issue
There weren't actually that many other demographics that seemed to correlate with response. In fact, the age group most willing to talk politics at work (45-54) was only a few years older than the age group least willing to talk politics at work (35-44). Teens were more willing than most, though not by much.If you'd like to vote on this question, dig deeper into the demographics, or engage in existing discussion about the topic, visit our poll about politics in the workplace. We'd love to hear from you!
Top Opinion
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twhiting9275 2012/09/11 20:41:00
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As far as the poker patriots sentiments, he/she is correct on assessing the resume of Obama. He has never accomplished anything substantial in his life other than the very significant stature of a person who has built a political career based on division of people, whether it be race, class, politcal philosophy, etc.,. Bush claimed to be the great uniter. I disagree. Obama acted as the great divider. I'd say, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
It be simply stated that you have your own definition?
it has successfully quelled debate.
that's ok. that's a losing strategy and i'm perfectly fine with conservatives losing.
These are subjects better left for discussion in the home, with family or close friends.
ususally talking to EACH other in a loud voice about how obama is a socialist or what not.
i don't think your argument holds any water.
I personally was simply raised to consider such behavior rude.
fire them ?
We never discussed religion, politics, how much we made and what kind of sex we enjoyed. Nowaday, you can get all that on a t-shirt!!
Facts rule!