An epiphany on frame control

There is a conversational technique called “frame control” where one person can arrange to control the interaction in any way he or she so chooses.

The term frame control implies a subtext of psychological manipulation on the part of the speaker.

(This carries over into writing.)

The epiphany: when someone is writing or speaking as to invite controversy, if they establish frame control, you have two choices:

  1. Agree with the speaker.
  2. Leave the conversation.

Discussion under these conditions serves only one purpose: maintaining the speaker’s frame.