People get very upset over so-called simple, neutral topics: What should humans eat for optimal health? What's your favorite animal? How can one improve one's chances of finding a language partner?

The first question can lead to bitter fighting between carnivores, vegans, and everything-in-moderationists. The favorite animal question can lead to anger that some people don't adore the same animal you do or like an animal you can't stand. The third, with suggestions to write coherently, include some information and think about what you can offer, can anger people who think it's dictating to people what they should do or offering false hope.

For this reason, it's not entirely clear what makes a topic controversial or why debate is unprofessional. Of course, like you, I understand it's not my platform and maybe there's a reason it's bad to discuss relationships, values, and family arrangements around the world.

I would like it to be someone who is curious, interested in the world, enjoys talking, doesn't try to make it like a class and doesn't put pressure on me to commit to something long-term after just one chat.

The most important thing is someone who understands it's a casual conversation, not a class. I would not want someone who tried to get me to teach them, tell them why things were said the way they were, or someone who tried to do the same to me. I can open a book if I want to know why and get a more accurate explanation anyway.

@Guyomar I could have given up a long time ago if I am not learning anything. With humility, I accept that the last discussion was a bit off. I got too comfortable making thought-provoking discussions that I did not take into consideration my status as a teacher. I'll find a way to keep the discussions interesting but still within the rules.

Although I must say that most interesting topics are outside of the rules but hey I will find a way.

@Guyomar Good suggestion.. It's a learning experience of course. I'll keep the topics light in the next few days or weeks. That is a good suggestion.. I'll have to read the guidelines again so as not to step out of the line. 🙂

I'm sure you'll find a way to keep discussing questions that don't have an obvious answer, Florian. The way to do it is to follow the stated rules and then just ask questions that are ostensibly about cultural norms.

For example, it's not against the rules to state and ask:

<em>In my culture, most people have long-term relationships with one other person only. Is it the same or different in your country? Are other types of relationships accepted, tolerated, or discouraged? How? Does your opinion on this topic fall in line with that of your culture?</em>

This is not inappropriate, doesn't break any rules, is about normative behavior and how it is enforced, and invites the sharing of perspectives from different cultures.