As I’ve grown older, I’ve become pessimistic about the possibility of persuasion. Most of my efforts to persuade others to my way of thinking have been futile. Indeed, my efforts to persuade may have resulted in many becoming even further entrenched in their position.

However, some people are persuadable, at least at times. For example, I know of a number of people who once thought of themselves as socialists who are now ardent defenders of liberty:

• Thomas Sowell

• Dennis Pratt

• Walter Block

• Gene Epstein

• Michael Rectenwald

• Chase Oliver

To the extent that persuasion is possible, I aspire to do it well. To that end, I've collected examples of people who are especially skilled at the craft. Do you know examples of someone demonstrating great skill at winning over a hostile audience? Of calming a rageful heckler? If so, please send them my way!

Masterful handling of hecklers / opponents

Vivek Ramaswamy addresses a young woman protester
https://x.com/AeroStudioMan/status/1836966498620895739

Vivek Ramaswamy addresses a pro-choice heckler
https://x.com/itslinklauren/status/1678561534165827585

Pierre Poilievre eating an apple

Milton Friedman debates greed with Phil Donahue

Milton Friedman Crushes Man's 3 Questions like Dixie Cups

Cohen vs. Hogg - Dartmouth Debate Highlights

Ronald Reagan addresses the age issue

Jordan Peterson interview with Cathy Newman

Inspiring speeches

Ronald Reagan - last speech on immigration

Daniel Hannan - last Brexit speech

Daniel Hannan - Why MEP Daniel Hannan Argues for Brexit

Erik Voorhees - Permissionless II