The old maxim that one mustn’t discuss religion or politics because they’re powderkeg subjects is especially important on a first date (or while attempting to get that first date) because chances are excellent that powderkeg will blow up in your face. Unless you’re at a political rally or in a church, where you can be pretty sure of your intended target’s affiliation, you’re much better off avoiding these two subjects altogether.

I can’t tell you the number of dates I’ve been on where my date held forth with great passion on some subject or another and ended with something along the lines of, “… and anyone who feels otherwise is a damned fool!” Well, I felt otherwise, and began looking around for a door from which to make a hasty escape from this thoughtless blowhard. We obviously had no future together at minimum because he feels morally superior to anyone he comes across and must hasten to expound on it, and at maximum because he apparently won’t ever want to even listen to another side of things.

If you do meet someone at a political rally or at your church, you have it made: you needn’t thrash about looking for an opening line; they’re pretty much written for you already:

• “That certainly was a rousing sermon! Which part did you like best?” (Avoid questions requiring mere “yes/no” answers so you stand a chance of getting a dialog going.)
• “I’m going to sign up to volunteer! Want to come with me?” (Yes, this is a “yes/no” question, but it gives you an opportunity to ask more questions if you get a “yes.”)
• “I didn’t catch the part about (…). Can you explain/expand on it for me?”

Now there is in fact one time when it is appropriate to discuss religion and politics but if you’re going to do it, do it carefully: it’s when religion or politics is a deal-breaker for you. If it is a requirement that your potential date (who could be a potential mate in the future) be a specific religion or belong to a specific political party, then you may want to clear it up up-front. But do it delicately! (“Hi! Are you by any chance Jewish/a Scientologist/a Libertarian?”) If your intended doesn’t respond in the affirmative, be nice. No making faces, and no saying anything unpleasant if your intended doesn’t meet your stringent requirements. A simple “Okay, thanks!” is sufficient, and then move on. 

Aside from that one exception, save the politics and religion talk until you’ve nailed at least a second date, but if you’re really having a good time, why screw things up so soon? There’s plenty of time to blow holes in the relationship down the road with these topics! Enjoy your dating now while you still can!