Many controversial and difficult issues have come up in our social discourse in the last few years, from Brexit to identity politics. Teachers have a responsibility to provide an impartial and safe space for young people to discuss and learn about such issues and make up their own minds, but this is not an easy task when emotions are running high. The first thing that needs to be acknowledged and addressed before a process of listening and exchanging opinions can be undertaken is the strong negative emotion that impedes this process.