Teaching People On Opposite Ends Of The Political Divide To Converse Civilly

Throughout the 2020 election season, we’ve seen tempers flare. People have been attacked for asking others to wear masks, or had campaign signs and property defaced.

A recent study of 2,000 people found that 62% felt they couldn’t express political opinions without offending someone. Many felt it could jeopardize their livelihoods.

So why is it so hard to talk about politics civilly? Is it possible? According to the bipartisan, not-for-profit Braver Angels group, the answer is yes. Braver Angels has been running trainings, speaking and podcasting about civil discourse for nearly four years.

John Wood Jr. is a national leader with the group and former vice-chair of the Los Angeles County Republican Party. He joins host Robin Young to talk about bridging the divide.

This article was originally published on WBUR.org. [Copyright 2020 NPR]