Repairing the Social Fabric of Our Country

Most Americans have stopped talking to each other and started demonizing those who hold opposing political views. Our political affiliation has become a central part of our personal identity, and we have retreated into comfortable cocoons filled with like-minded people who reinforce our worldviews at the expense of all other perspectives. We have stopped accepting the possibility that any other points of view could have anything to offer us and regard hard conversations, compromise, and negotiation as betrayal of our tribe. We see avatars instead of humans and accuse those who disagree with us as being un-American.

The result? We have lost trust in each other, and we have significantly less empathy for one another. Many have disengaged from the political process because they have stopped believing it is even possible to work together for the good of all Americans. They don’t think anybody in power is listening to them or acting in their interest. The condition is not limited to politics. Polarization is negatively affecting families, workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, and religious organizations. Polarization is stressing the fabric of our society.

In this Kallion Circle, Philippa Hughes will lead participants in creating a new framework for human social flourishing that rebuilds our connections and care for one another. They will use artistic practices to reframe the conversations we have with ourselves and one another. This is an invitation to imagine the world we want to live in and create a plan to get there.

In advance of the first session, participants are required to watch The Greatest Poem and read “Governance for Human Social Flourishing” by Professor Jenna Bednar. Additional readings and viewings will be required averaging about two hours for each session. Participants will also be asked to share personal experiences that will inform the process.

The sessions will take place on September 21, September 28, October 5, October 19, and October 26, 2022, from 12 to 1:30 pm ET.

The registration deadline is September 11, 2022. The registration fee is $249.