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CRITICALLY REFLECTIVE CONVERSATIONS FOR EVERYONE

Street Epistemology is a conversational approach that helps people critically reflect on the quality of their reasoning through thoughtful, civil conversations. It offers a novel yet accessible way for nearly anyone who wants to explore their own or others’ beliefs while prioritizing autonomy, authenticity, accuracy, and attentiveness.

 

About Street Epistemology

What's the benefit of SE?

 

SE gives you tools to discuss difficult topics that matter to you and those around you. It helps you better understand others' views and maybe even change a mind along the way.

 
WHAT IS SE?

What's the purpose of SE?

 

SE is for anyone who values understanding others and having productive conversations about differences. It’s a versatile approach that you can tailor to fit your specific goals.

 
WHY USE SE?

How can SE be learned?

 

This website connects you to resources and communities to help you learn, practice, and improve SE. It has everything you need to start meaningful conversations and grow your skills.

 
HOW TO DO SE?

  

Thoughtful Testimonials

(summarized and shared with permission)

“I’ve been applying Street Epistemology in my work as a hospice physician, and it has transformed how I handle difficult conversations. Instead of explaining medical details, I now ask thoughtful questions to help families recognize what’s been happening over time. This shift has made all the difference—guilt, doubt, and anger often dissolve as they reach their own realizations. I’m grateful for how much your teaching has improved my ability to connect and communicate in these deeply emotional moments.”

— Shelly
Arizona, United States
Illustration of Shelly

“I’ve been exploring Street Epistemology, and it feels far more respectful and effective than confrontational debates. Reflecting on my own journey of changing beliefs, I can see how gentle, curious conversations prompt introspection rather than defensiveness. I really feel like many people could learn and grow from each other using this method, especially on campuses where people are already primed to learn and challenge their beliefs.”

— Mitchell
North Carolina, United States
Illustration of Mitchell

“Street Epistemology has not only improved how I engage in meaningful conversations but has also enhanced my professional skills as a therapist. Drawing inspiration from the thoughtful questioning techniques, I’ve been able to better support my clients, even in challenging cases. Recently, I worked with an individual struggling to separate reality from delusions and, by adapting Street Epistemology methods, we developed a fact-checking approach that brought clarity and progress. What might have taken weeks in therapy was achieved in a single session. Street Epistemology has proven invaluable in fostering critical thinking and meaningful change, both personally and professionally.”

— Jeff
Utah, United States
Illustration of Jeff

“I’ve been learning Street Epistemology, and it has become an invaluable tool for having tough conversations. When a close family member was in crisis and believed she wasn’t “good enough,” I recognized how a respectful, curious approach could help her examine that belief once she felt more stable. This experience convinced me of Street Epistemology’s potential to foster understanding and empathy, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned so far.”

— Kristin
Milwaukee, United States
Illustration of Kristin

“I’ve been a follower of Street Epistemology for several years, and it resonates deeply with me. Reflecting on my own journey from faith to skepticism, I wish someone had used SE with me during my years of irrational thinking. It might have saved me from wasting time, money, and effort on beliefs that didn’t hold up to scrutiny. Since embracing a more rational and evidence-based outlook, I’ve experienced significant personal growth, and SE has been a source of inspiration in navigating conversations with others. I’m grateful for the resources and tools that continue to help me refine my thinking and engage more effectively.”

— Ben
Texas, United States
Illustration of Ben

“My life changed entirely within a few months after discovering Street Epistemology through videos. Born into a strict, cult-like Islamic sect, I spent years suppressing doubts with mental gymnastics. Watching SE conversations, especially with people from other religions, like the Mormon missionaries, dismantled my faith in any god. Though I can’t yet share my doubts openly or leave my situation, SE gave me the clarity and tools to think critically about my beliefs. Thank you for saving me from a life of blindly perpetuating the same teachings. The method of SE is truly changing lives, including mine.”

— Amina
California, United States
Illustration of Amina

“Discovering Street Epistemology has been eye-opening, as it highlights the balance needed when engaging with deeply held beliefs. Reflecting on my life, I see how some beliefs are driven by emotion rather than reason, and challenging them might do more harm than good. SE’s emphasis on recognizing this distinction—between intellectual and emotional believers—is something I deeply respect. It’s not just about logic but understanding when questioning could hurt more than help. SE's thoughtful approach inspires me to engage more compassionately, knowing that intellectual curiosity and empathy can coexist.”

— Michel
Québec, Canada
Illustration of Michel

“Integrating Street Epistemology into my classroom has been a game-changer. As a high school philosophy teacher, I introduced SE to my students last year, and the results were incredible. The method helped them engage more deeply with ideas, question assumptions, and refine their reasoning in ways traditional discussions often don’t. Seeing students explore their beliefs with genuine curiosity has been inspiring. I’m excited to implement SE again this year and continue using it as a tool for cultivating critical thinking and open dialogue in the classroom.”

— Duke
Texas, United States
Illustration of Duke

“Discovering Street Epistemology was a turning point in my life. Raised in a deeply religious environment, I spent over 20 years fully committed to views I could not justify, try as I might. Through watching SE conversations, I began to reflect on the value of truth and what it means to hold beliefs for good reasons. The thoughtful, respectful questioning I saw encouraged me to examine my own views with an open mind. Over time, this process helped me shift my focus from loyalty to my beliefs toward a commitment to understanding what is true. Street Epistemology gave me the tools to think critically and embrace curiosity, transforming the way I approach ideas and conversations.”

— Tim
Philadelphia, United States
Illustration of Tim

“I’ve always struggled with having productive conversations about deeply held beliefs, but discovering Street Epistemology changed that. Using the tools I’ve learned, I’ve had meaningful talks with both my 11-year-old daughter and my mom. My daughter began questioning her belief in "new life after death," and we had such a fun, engaging exchange about how we know what’s true. With my mom, I finally felt equipped to have a productive discussion about her COVID-related conspiracy theory. These tools have made tough conversations not only possible but genuinely worthwhile. Thank you for showing me how to engage effectively!”

— Patrick
Tennessee, United States
Illustration of Patrick

“Street Epistemology has completely changed how I approach conversations and personal growth. For years, I engaged in deep discussions with friends about opposing beliefs, but they rarely led to sincere self-reflection or questioning. After learning about Street Epistemology, I finally felt equipped to ask meaningful, respectful questions that inspire curiosity and critical thinking. These techniques have helped me reexamine my own views while encouraging others to do the same. Over time, this approach has deepened my understanding of what it means to hold beliefs for good reasons and strengthened my commitment to seeking truth.”

— Timothy
Arizona, United States
Illustration of Timothy

“Street Epistemology has completely transformed how I approach conversations with people who hold unfounded beliefs. It’s taught me to see others as individuals with feelings and to engage with compassion and respect. While I’ve followed prominent thinkers, SE has been unparalleled in showing me how to have meaningful, productive dialogues. It hasn’t just changed how I communicate—it’s made a positive impact on those around me as well.”

— Bill
Maryland, United States
Illustration of Bill

“Discovering Street Epistemology has completely changed how I approach conversations about deeply held beliefs, including politics. I’ve always enjoyed engaging in debates, but my method often left people defensive and digging in their heels. SE’s calm and curious approach feels so much more effective, disarming people and encouraging them to open up. Watching these conversations has helped me refine my own thinking and realize how valuable this technique can be when discussing political topics. It’s a winning approach that sparks reflection—not just for those involved but for anyone watching, too.”

— Jonathan
Alaska, United States
Illustration of Jonathan

“Street Epistemology has taught me a more respectful and effective way to engage with others. The thoughtful approach to exploring beliefs has been both inspiring and eye-opening, helping me reflect on how upbringing, circumstances, and beliefs shape our behavior. These lessons have not only improved how I interact with others but have also encouraged personal growth. I'm grateful for the insights and tools SE provides for meaningful, respectful conversations.”

— Bhret
Bristol, United Kingdom
Illustration of Bhret

“Street Epistemology has completely transformed how I engage with others and approach my own beliefs. After discovering it through watching examples on YouTube, I realized how to keep conversations civil and productive while exploring why people hold certain views. It’s taught me to avoid combative discussions, focus on understanding reasoning, and ensure I have solid foundations for my own conclusions. SE has even helped me navigate challenging interactions with friends over contentious topics, emphasizing curiosity and respect over conflict. This method has had a profound, lasting impact on my life and how I connect with others.”

— Chris
Washington, United States
Illustration of Chris

“Street Epistemology has completely changed how I engage in conversations about religion. For years, I debated with religious missionaries who showed up at my door, but once I adopted SE, my discussions became more productive and insightful. One memorable conversation lasted three hours, focusing entirely on epistemology. By asking careful, non-confrontational questions, I helped someone realize that their belief was more about personal benefit than truth. Seeing that shift in real-time was incredible. SE has also helped me recognize and address cognitive biases in myself and others, making my conversations far more meaningful. The ability to explore ideas without confrontation has been transformative.”

— Alan
New Jersey, United States
Illustration of Alan

“Growing up as a third-generation evangelical pastor, I was deeply committed to my faith and saw ministry as a way to help others. But over time, I began noticing the cracks—contradictions in my religion that became harder to ignore. At the same time, I was struggling with my identity, knowing I was queer while living in a community that would never accept me. Leaving the church was painful. I tried to hold onto my faith, but shame and guilt weighed me down. Finding Street Epistemology was life-changing. The respectful, thoughtful approach helped me ask myself the same questions I had seen posed to others, allowing me to work through my doubts and emotions. Though my journey was difficult, it led me to a life of authenticity and happiness. I wouldn’t trade my loss of faith or my coming out for anything in the world.”

— Andy
Maryland, United States
Illustration of Andy

“Street Epistemology has been invaluable in shaping my critical thinking. Its methods have helped me assess the reasoning behind both my own beliefs and those of others, fostering greater self-awareness and open-mindedness. SE offers a practical approach to understanding how beliefs influence behaviour, and its impact is far-reaching. I'm grateful for the accessible resources that make these tools available to everyone.”

— Michael
Queensland, Australia
Illustration of Michael

Do you have a real Street Epistemology experience worth sharing?

We’d love to hear your story! Share how SE has influenced your conversations or changed your perspective, and send us your testimonial. Please specify what we should use for your first name, state/province, and country so we can consider featuring your story alongside others. We'd love to have some more examples from outside the United States, too.

— Your Name Here
State/Province/Territory, Country
Illustration of Your Name Here

Free Learning Course for Rational Conversations

Ready to transform your discussions? The Navigating Beliefs course offers a robust, timely, and accessible way to learn Street Epistemology in an informal, easy-to-understand format for a wide audience.

NavigatingBeliefs.com âž” I ALREADY HAVE AN ACCOUNT

What to Expect in the Course

Module 1: What is Street Epistemology?

Find out what Street Epistemology is, the key steps of Street Epistemology and how they work, and the main qualities and history of Street Epistemology.

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Module 2: Why Use Street Epistemology?

Learn which goals you should and could pursue when doing Street Epistemology.

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Module 3: Considering Ethics

Discover the ethical principles to adhere to when doing Street Epistemology.

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Module 4: Having the Right Mindset

Explore the ideal mindsets for Street Epistemology and techniques to develop them.

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Module 5: Preparing to Do Street Epistemology

What factors do we need to consider and practically prepare for prior to doing Street Epistemology?

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Module 6: Building and Maintaining Rapport

Learn to build and maintain rapport, assess and track it, avoid actions that break it, and recover when it’s lost.

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Support Street Epistemology International

Street Epistemology International is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that created the Navigating Beliefs course and supports the development, practice, and promotion of Street Epistemology to people around the world. Your support is greatly appreciated and will be used wisely.

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