Q. I am a great admirer of Dr Jordan Peterson so am naturally inclined to want to discuss his ideas with others. Last week, however, the man next to me at my niece’s wedding took umbrage when I mentioned Dr Peterson’s name and that I was a fan. This fellow guest turned out to be a vehement opponent and became quite heated as he tried to re-educate me. He was insistent that I reverse my favourable views but I wouldn’t back down. I would not want to create similar tension again at a social event with such an unexpected reaction. Ironically, our hosts had put us next to one another because they considered we had much in common. Any thoughts, Mary, about how best to avoid this pitfall in future?

– Name and address withheld

A. You can test the waters in future by remarking in neutral tones: ‘My goddaughter has just asked me to buy her the latest book by Jordan Peterson. Have you read it?’ If the reaction is hostile, nod politely and change the subject. Thus harmony can be retained at social events which are intended to be celebratory.

Q. This year my cousin is coming to spend Christmas with us as her husband has just left her after nearly 20 years together. She is moving back to London to a small flat and says she doesn’t want any presents because she’s trying to get rid of clutter. However, I would like to put some small present under the tree for her and hope you might have a suggestion.

– H.S., Bourton-on-the-Hill

A. Give her a voucher to a DIY day course in plumbing. These workshops take place in London and your cousin can learn how to tackle some basic plumbing tasks as an experienced tutor walks her through some ‘dry’ exercises to cope with the ‘wet arts’ of her new home, (www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk). The new skills should help her miss her husband less.

Q. Suggesting that your correspondent spray her olefactorily challenged father with Poo-Pourri (2 December) to overcome the naff fabric conditioner now used in his household could result in serious unintended consequences. Unless the wicked stepmother is similarly nasally defective, she might conclude that her new husband is playing away. Her natural reaction would be to ban him from social engagements to which she is not party. That would end the happy weekly filial meetings.

– A.S., Hungerford

A. This would be a good point were it not for the fact that Poo-Pourri neutralises offensive odours rather than replacing them. With other products it would certainly be something to look out for.