Pathways to Social Connection and Civility in a Time of Political and Social Polarization

Abstract

Larry Froman moves toward a solution to some political difficulties by addressing pathways to social connection in a time of political and social polarization. The current dysfunction of our politics in today’s society reflects threats to democratic values and to respectful debate of issues and policies. Democracies here in the United States and globally are under threat by growing trends of populist and extremist political movements that in part, reflect frustration, anger, and alienation among those in society who feel disenfranchised by traditional governing processes. Norms of civility have been replaced by personal attacks and appeals to bigotry. People who hold different political beliefs from those held by others are often viewed as enemies who lack legitimacy. In the US, our two main political parties have become increasingly polarized and trapped within their silos of rigid ideologies. So called 'facts' are selectively woven together to justify preexisting positions. Compromise and finding common ground are viewed not as legitimate paths to addressing critical problems facing our country, but rather as betrayal and weakness. A solution may include addressing pathways to social connection. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)