How curiosity can bridge what divides us
Mónica Guzmán, self-described “proud liberal daughter of two conservative parents,” on the lost art of listening and making connections across the political divide.
Listen 50:00
With the midterms just around the corner and tight, contentious races across the country, political polarization is reaching a fever pitch. Increasingly, voters don’t just disagree on many of the driving issues; they view the other side as immoral. But a democracy depends on healthy debate, compromise, and the peaceful transfer of power. Is it possible to have civil conversations with people who don’t share our views?
Mónica Guzmán believes it’s not just possible, it’s necessary. For one thing, she says, we exaggerate the views of people we disagree with. And fear and certainty can harden our opinions, making it tough to bridge our differences.
Guzmán joins us on The Connection to explain why asking questions can help us tackle the crisis of our polarized nation.
She is founder and CEO of Reclaim Curiosity, host of the A Braver Way podcast, and author of I Never Thought of It That Way.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
Brought to you by The Connection with Marty Moss-Coane
The governor, who leads his opponent in polling and fundraising, is spending his final days touring the state to campaign for U.S. House candidates.
1 day ago
Voters in Bridgeton, N.J., will decide whether to keep the city-funded library open
Supporters of the Free Public Library are working to defeat a surprise referendum question approved over the summer.
2 days ago
Listen 0:59
At a youth engagement listening session in North Philly, Bennett heard about school conditions, civic education and the city’s response to teen takeovers.
2 days ago