One purpose of classroom discussions is not to try to change people's views but to better understand why classmates believe whatever they believe. One of the best ways to achieve such deeper understanding is to hear the basis for other people's beliefs. In this light, the author modeled this behavior for students, which required revealing personal views and demonstrating how to use evidence and arguments to arrive at conclusions. Because of the relationships students built with the author and with each other, they were never uncivil in class discussions. The benefits of that effort extended well beyond the question of revealing personal views, because earning the trust of students also created a congenial and productive classroom environment.