Beyond Polarization: Where We Are Today

Episode 133

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Beyond Polarization: Where We Are Today
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Stat: An inaccurate “double”: Both Democrats and Republicans imagine that almost twice as many of their political opponents hold more extreme views than they really do, according to a study by More in Common.

Story: During times of increased polarization and increasing stresses on democracy, researchers are studying how to break down partisan divides and address misconceptions among members of the public. In the first episode of “Beyond Polarization,” Columbia University professor and author Peter T. Coleman shares what he has learned from his career spent fostering civil dialogue among people with conflicting viewpoints. He discusses how, despite heightened feelings of disagreement across the country, the current conditions are ideal for setting a new course toward better dialogue and understanding.

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Topics: Arts & Culture, U.S. Policy & U.S. State Policy
Experts: Peter T. Coleman, Ph.D.

After the Fact

Related Experts
Peter T. Coleman, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology and Education
Columbia University

Beyond Polarization in American Politics

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In this season of “After the Fact,” we speak with researchers and bridge builders from across the political spectrum to learn how they’re facilitating civil dialogue and bridging divides. Pew Research Center reports that 65% of Americans say they always or often feel exhausted when thinking about politics because of the country’s deep partisan divisions. As polarization increases and trust in democratic institutions declines, how can we move forward and maintain a functioning democracy?

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