I was recently in conversation with some folks about the upcoming election and the polarized nature of our country’s politics. A sociologist among us was explaining that with our increasing ability to self-select our company and our news sources, and tailor them to our preferences, we find it increasingly rare that people in different camps interact. Furthermore, studies have shown that being surrounded only by folks who share one’s opinions tends to facilitate enactment of more radical ideas.
What will be the outcome of this isolation? Is there a way to counteract this trend? How do we face the juggernaut of social polarization?
One way is to start where we are with what we have. Our neighborhoods, at least here in the central city, are diverse enough in opinion. Washington School Neighbors is one organization that is seeking ways to bring neighbors together based on shared geography, not political opinions. And I am grateful that our churches have agreed that this is an important effort—for neighbors to love neighbors through efforts of hospitality and care.
~Andrew Spidahl, Neighborhood Connector