If you've ever conversed with a closeminded person, you are aware how difficult it is to get your point across and to maintain your cool. You might not realize it, but there are good reasons for this. While some people seem like scientists and genuinely want to know the truth, others seem like bad politicians and lawyers: dishonest truth-hiders whose only goal is to defend and persuade. Below are some of their tactics. Once you're familiar with these ploys, you can fight against them (or at least not let them drive you crazy!)