What topics should be avoided in initiating conversations

Initiating conversations should indeed be done with sensitivity to the other party's comfort levels. Here are some topics that are generally best avoided unless you have a clear understanding of the person and their preferences:

1. Politics: Especially if you don't know the other person's political preferences; discussions can quickly become heated.

2. Religion: Like politics, religious beliefs can be deeply personal and the subject can be contentious.

3. Personal Finances: Asking about someone's income or financial status is typically considered impolite unless they bring it up.

4. Health Issues: Discussing another individual's health, especially serious conditions, can be invasive unless they share this information about themselves.

5. Sensational News: Tragic or controversial news can dominate conversations, often leading to negative feelings and stress.

6. Intimate Relationships: Personal details about one's dating life, family matters, or personal relationships can be uncomfortable to discuss with strangers.

7. Death: Conversations about death or significant losses can be distressing for some individuals.

8. Controversial Personal Beliefs: Subjects like gun control, abortion, or race relations can often lead to strong emotions and difficult discussions.

9. Illness and Pandemics: Unless contextually appropriate or relevant to the individual's experiences, conversations about illness, especially pandemics, can provoke anxiety.

Remember, cultural contexts also matter—what is considered taboo in one culture might not be in another. Always try to pay attention to social cues and adjust the conversation accordingly to maintain a respectful and comfortable dialogue.