We all know that politics, like religion and money, is a big fat no-no when it comes to dinner party chat. Or is it? The headline on a recent New York Times article - “Sex? Yawn. Politics? That's Hot!” - suggests otherwise. And, come to think of it, when was the last time you managed to bypass politics at dinner, be it Michelle Obama, Iraq, global warming or Gordon's latest PR nightmare?

Exactly. Politics is back, right on the dinner table, where everyone can see it. But discussing burning issues in genteel social situations is an unfamiliar exercise for most of us. Just how do you stay cool when hot under the collar?

LeeAundra Temescu, a US-based communications coach, insists on restraint: “Excessive emotion is still viewed negatively and shrillness and stridency won't help your credibility. Conviction, even passion, is fine - just keep it well modulated.” Avoid charged words: “I strongly question his judgment,” is better than “He is a war criminal.” Respectfulness is always better than bullishness. If need be, force yourself to “ask a lot of questions rather than just spouting off your own opinions”, Temescu says. “If someone says they oppose the war, ask them why.”

Carole Stone, the British networking author, sums it up nicely: “The trick is to make your point strongly, but with a smile that tells everyone that you're not going spoil the party.” Hear hear.

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