Sep 01, 2026

 

Dr. Trish Reay, from the UofA School of Business, provided insight to the phases that drive polarization. Her example was based on research related to safe injection sites in Alberta, but could be applied to many of society's current contentious issues. Polarization happens in 3 phases:  1 is emotion, 2 is heightened hostility and 3 is disdain, disgust and self isolation. In this era of social media, getting to self isolation is increasingly easy. De-escalation, however difficult is possible if both parties can agree to discuss factual data and have calm conversations. Thank you Dr. Reay for taking the time today with club members and guests.