Polarization — Solving the World's Greatest Problems

SOLVING

Polarization

BUILDING COMMUNITY AND FIGHTING POLITICAL BITTERNESS

Political polarization frays the fibers of many democratic societies. What can be done?

LUKE 10:36-37

“‘Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.’”

In the worlds of politics and religion, people tend to focus on coming to an agreement or finding a place where they see things the same way. But for David Beasley, he wants to become friends first, regardless of any disagreements.

Polarization in the United States is increasing depression and anxiety.

Participants of a recent ScienceDirect study reporting an increase in polarization had 52–57% higher odds of developing depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. Increasingly, neighbors distrust neighbors and political affiliation drives people to view those who disagree with them negatively.

Those on the political extremes show no signs of finding common ground. Firebrand politicians and commentators dominate by pushing their followers into tribes and demonizing their political opponents.

Each election seems to drive the walls between us higher. But the trends toward increasing polarization are not one way. Several countries have slowed or even reversed polarization, providing hope that finding common ground is possible.

HILLMAN CITY: Furniture store owner fosters community and belonging (Faith & Co)

Political Divide, Religious Divide

In the worlds of politics and religion, people tend to focus on coming to an agreement or finding a place where they see things the same way. But for David Beasley, he wants to become friends first, regardless of any disagreements.
See how his life reflects this mission.

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What Does It Take for Business to Play Its Part in the Community?

In this long-neglected Seattle neighborhood, Karl Hackett opened a mid-century furniture store. His relational approach to business (and sales) has created a space where strangers become neighbors, customers become friends, and other business owners become allies.

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Fixing the Neighborhood Potluck

Jocelyn Newby is tearing down walls in her neighborhood by inviting her neighbors to bring their dinners to their street. She texts a neighbor and everyone brings out their dinner to eat together with their neighbors.

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This Dallas Company Sells Tables to Connect Neighbors

It started with one table and an invitation, but today Neighbor’s Table provides opportunities for thousands to take the church to their neighborhood, welcoming their neighbors to find belonging.

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