[vox_mollis]

In a fundamentally emotional argument, you 'win' with empathy

Except you don't actually win. In conceding to their fears with an empathetic approach, you are enabling their delusions. That's the problem with placating unreasonable people - doing so inevitably emboldens them.

[calinet6]

You're thinking too logically. It is a human connection you're building with empathy, not a strategy. Play the long game.

[aharonovich]

But do you want to live with this person? If I hold an opinion that's so sub optimal and I hold it because of emotional reasons I'd like someone to shake me out of it, not pet me on the head and smile.

[isolate]

That's like the worst thing you can do for a delusion.