Is it a personal question to ask somebody's political beliefs?

Question

Is it offensive to ask somebody that you've known for a while what political party they support? I'm talking about in a casual situation, not a job interview or something like that. Obviously it depends on the individual but in general is politics a sensitive/personal issue? I've always just assumed it was ok to talk about. Is it as complicated as asking about somebody's religious background? Or is that less personal. It's a minefield! Please discuss as I'm very confused!

Answer 1

Some people with very old fashioned manners thought it terribly rude to inquire about politics or religious things.
These days many are less formal. Thus, it depends on the friend!

--That Cheeky Lad

Answer 2

Approach it like this, offer up information on a recent news stories you've read that has a distinct political lean. Abortion, for example. That could lead to greater discussion and ultimate disclosure of the person's true political ideas.

I think it is rude to just ask someone. If it is really important to you, then do it in a sly sort of way so you don't offend.

Answer 3

Yes, it is.

Since a political party is somehow a whole system of beliefs , a general view on life. So, in a way we get a picture of one's beliefs, even on sensitive / personal issues as you state, such as religious beliefs, ethical matters, racism etc. If one talks freely about his political beliefs, it's OK, it is his choise. But we, we rather not ask.

Answer 4

I don't think that politics are as personal as religion. Most people are incredibly open about their political standing. Especially now-a-days when everyone feels the need to voice their open about the president and the war and so forth. If someone gets uptight about it they probably either don't know what their talking about or just don't feel confident enough in their beliefs to voice them.

Answer 5

There's nothing wrong with asking a friend what their political beliefs are,but in a place like a job interview,it's a no-no. Kinda like asking what their favorite sexual position is?

Answer 6

hmm...tricky! well, lemme ask u this. u ask urself too...do it matter? i mean, they say 2 things neva to talk about, religion+politics. i mean, both cause a lot of chaos, but i think everybody entitled to they own opinion. unless its needed, or this otha person asked u...i wouldnt worry bout askin. but, if u highly political, n u really wanna, than go ahead. well, on ya own political views, do u suspect da person may got similar views, or do u think he/she is way oposite of u, n that it might hurt da relationship? well, it depends on the situation, but if u really wanna ask, be prepared for a debate, or loosin some1 important at da most. what do ya heart tell ya to do? not da ego...g'luck!

Answer 7

You could preface your inquiry by asking if their political beliefs are too personal to discuss. Everyone is different. Be careful though, you might get an earful!

Answer 8

I wouldn't of said its particulary personal if approached in a causal way, when somebody believes in something or a way of life they usually love to tell you why there right.

If someone has particulary extream views (far right etc.) they probably won't tell you though

Answer 9

For some, it is sensitive. Especially if they don't like your choice and decide to tell you how they feel. First ask the person if they feel the topic is sensitive/personal.

Answer 10

not at all. i'ts a social question. personal questions would be something like...do you use tampons or pads. do you pick yer nose when nobody is looking. do you wipe yer butt with dirty cloths if ya run out of toilet paper.lol...or do ya pee in the pool or the shower. lol. ...now those are personal questions..lol