Commonwealth Policy Center

We’re as politically divided as ever before and our interactions often end up divisive arguments. So how do we rise above an unhealthy tribalism that’s reduced us to the sum of our political opinions? Start by recognizing that your political opponent is first and foremost a person endowed with dignity by the Creator. They’re a person made in God’s image. Believing this tempers your opinions with great humility, which drives away arrogance in a heartbeat. Realize that your opinions aren’t everything. If you’re around long enough, you’ll find that they change over time. You might even be wrong! Cast away unhealthy suspicions and build your conversation upon goodwill and charity toward opponents. If we’re going to see civility restored, we must rediscover the lost art of conversation. But this begins with respect. And it begins with you.