EP Guide to Conversations Across the Partisan Divide

The term polarization describes any situation where people sort themselves into opposing sides, erase the complexity of the individuals as well as the issues, and then spiral into increasingly inhumane treatment of “the other side.” Any difference in views or identities can become polarized.

Partisan polarization (e.g. Democrats versus Republicans) has become particularly harmful for American democracy. It turns our huge, complicated, diverse country into a two-sided political sport. It is corrosive to our communities, our institutions, our relationships, and makes it impossible to address the many challenges we face together.

Drawing on four decades of real-world experience and rigorous research, this guide will equip you to address polarization in your own context.