Winning Enemies

Social psychologists say that to win over an enemy, you should ask them for a favor. Typically people will justify their favor to you by liking you more (because it would be foolish to do favors for people you don't like, and nobody likes to feel foolish).

I've just got to say, Obama is a smart man. The move infuriated the gay community, who are offended by Warren's opinions on homosexuality, as well as members of Warren's church, who are offended by Obama's opinions on homosexuality (and abortion) Obama is asking a favor of his enemies. Rick Warren and those who still support him will end up having to defend his friendship to Obama either to themselves or others.

He has also been to a dinner with conservative journalists and will be hosting a dinner in honor of John McCain. He is doing all he can to give a "no hard feelings" vibe. Nice guy or political genious, at least he's doing a good job at it.