4 Tips for Bridging Political Divides
Polarization, dehumanization, demonization, and . . . belonging?
Geoffrey L. Cohen is a psychology professor at Stanford University.
His research focuses on addressing complex social problems by developing interventions that facilitate a sense of belonging and self-worth. In his new book Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides, he shares science-backed strategies for creating more inclusive experiences which increase the potential for learning, growth, and well-being.
Belonging is full of wisdom backed by research and experience, and it's timely. The final chapter is about politics and bridging divides. Although the book surprised me many times, this line hit me the hardest.
A major force driving polarization, and the dehumanization and demonization that have accompanied it, is the desire to belong. - Geoffrey L. Cohen
Mic drop.
Part of the reason people hate so vehemently is that they enjoy the sense of belonging in their groups. Further increasing the potential for escalation, people tend to react more aggressively when they've been rejected by others.
Shame and exclusion don't change minds; they increase opposition.
Conflicting views are often received as a threat to worldview, a sense of belonging, and identity. In a series of studies in 2003, people expressed more allegiance to political parties than ideological beliefs when evaluating social policy.
During the 2016 presidential campaign, two studies investigated what's known as the "objectivity illusion" and its role in polarization. Objectivity illusion is the judging of your own side as objective, and the opposing side as biased. The studies found symmetry between Trump and Clinton supporters with both sides believing that their own side was rooted in fact, logic, and legitimate concerns, while the other side was based on misinformation, invalid arguments, and self-interest.
People tend to gather supporting evidence and reject conflicting information.
How Do We Bridge Our Divides?
In a volatile political environment at the height of election season, the ugly is on full display. Politicians are throwing fuel on the fire to win, and they seem increasingly open to lies, hatred, and violence.
We the People are the losers in this situation, and it's in our best interest to reject words, behaviors, and candidates that don't align with our values.
It's also helpful to pull the weeds of our own biases and have interactions with people who have different viewpoints.
It's not always possible to engage in safe and significant discussions, but when it is, there are ways to improve outcomes.
Professor Cohen's Tips for Talking Politics
Political conversations aren't easy, but they're important. These four actions will help pave the way for meaningful connections.
Provide Affirmation
Affirm their dignity and integrity by conveying warmth and openness with eye contact, body language, tone, and words. Even if you hold opposing positions, there's a good chance you can connect on shared values and concerns.
Bring Curiosity and Openness
People feel seen and heard when you ask questions and really listen. You can deepen discussions with thoughtful follow-up questions or with a simple, "Can you say more about that?"
Share Your Perspective
Ditch any form of "I'm right, and you're stupid." Instead, share your opinion and why you hold it. Include stories and experiences.
Open the Door for Empathy
Identify emotions involved in the issue you're discussing. It's common to appeal to logic and leave emotion out of the equation, but emotion opens doors to the shared experience of being human.
It's possible to have civil conversations without the threat of rejection. If dignity isn't up for negotiation, no one's value or worth can be tied to their current thoughts and beliefs.
Your Contributions Can Inspire Change
My opinions have changed over time. The most significant influences have been books and conversations that invited me to consider a different perspective. I'm grateful for the people who have shared their time, thoughts, and experiences.
Wouldn't it be a game changer to meet evolving beliefs with grace? To pursue an ever-expanding point of view? To stand strong in what we know to be true, and also be open to listening to someone else's way of thinking?
Here's to sharing stories, having conversations, and building bridges.
Photo by Aleksandr Barsukov on Unsplash
