How to Talk Politics in France (Without Starting a Fight)

While in many English-speaking countries it is considered good form to avoid divisive topics (including politics), in France, these discussions are part of the cultural identity.

For anyone who wants to participate in these lively debates while remaining friendly with the other participants, it is essential to know how to intervene at the right time and present their ideas appropriately.

“Politics is theoretically a taboo subject,” explains Bérengère de Monbois, director of the Académie des Proprieances, a school that teaches French etiquette. “But as I was telling my Taiwanese clients just an hour ago, all French people know they shouldn’t talk about politics, but they do it anyway.”

In France, it's almost inevitable that political discussions will arise at dinner, especially when it involves friends or family. The point isn't to argue, but rather to exchange. And as long as you join these debates with intellectual curiosity rather than a desire to stick to your guns, there will be a place for you at the table.

“What you shouldn't do is be too categorical,” advises Bérengère de Monbois. “If you say, 'In my opinion...'