Communicating in a Polarized Era

Marg began her presentation with a personal story about experiencing polarization during a US trip and asked the attendees to have discussions around their tables about what polarization is and how it impacts people. Members shared examples of polarization from their experiences, with COVID vaccination mentioned as a prime example and further discussion of how polarization has made certain topics (like US politics) difficult to discuss.

🤔 Understanding Polarization

• Definition of polarization: ideological, entrenched, emotional, and personalizing the problem
• Tips for handling polarized conversations: practicing self-care, helpful self-talk, reaching out to support networks
• Reference to 'Braver Angels' – a US group that teaches how to engage in polarized conversations
• Importance of separating the person from their remarks (using the example of 'remember your coffee mug').
• Understanding the spectrum of polarization from slightly polarized to highly polarized
• The speaker shared personal story of engaging with a polarized friend and strategies used

⚖️ Polarities vs. Problems

• Explanation of differences: problems can be solved, conflicts resolved, but polarities must be managed
• When polarities are treated as problems, they become conflicts
• Illustration of workplace example: flexible vs. clear leadership styles
• Explanation of 'figure eight' pattern where organizations swing between poles
• Discussion of 'diagonal architecture arguments' that create polarization
• Need to compare positives to positives rather than our positives against their negatives
• Common polarities mentioned: cooperation/competition, collective/individual, clarity/flexibility

🎬 Heineken Video and Dialogue

Heineken "Worlds apart" by Publicis London, bridging between people

A video was shown where 2 people with opposing viewpoints (on feminism, climate change, transgender issues) were brought together to build furniture. The participants connected first as humans with a common goal and only discovered their polarized differences afterwards.

After working together to build the furniture, each participant watched videos of each other's polarized views and were given a choice to either continue to participate or to disengage. Unanimously they chose to stay and discuss their significant differences over a beer.

This video demonstrated the value of opening minds through connection and dialogue.

Final message: 'Open your mind, open your world'

Marg emphasized the importance of listening and getting out of our 'echo chambers' and the value of seeking out people who think differently to practice engaging with other perspectives.