When the world seems to be too fast, you might feel overwhelmed. Alternately, if everything is too slow it can be frustrating. Which one is more common?
Share why if you wish.
Month: June 2020
Do You Know Anyone With COVID-19?
Do you personally know anyone who has, or had, COVID-19? Or has had family members who have had it, or have died from it? Have you had it?
Share why if you wish.
Why Are We So Antagonistic?
In America, tensions are running high. Neighbors, family members, even communities are clashing. Why are we so antagonistic toward each other?
There is no shortage of ways to separate people. For example, the political divide is larger than it has been in a generation. Economic inequality is at record levels. Rural and urban areas are at odds with each other.
Why is there so much tension?
It’s true that thanks to the Internet, people are able to seek out ideas similar to their own. Social media can act as an echo chamber, and algorithms can limit exposure to competing ideas.
Similarly, cable news has spawned a news channel for every political outlook. Talking heads with an agenda help shape public opinion.
There is also what is known as “self-selection”. When deciding where to live, people will often choose a neighborhood filled with people who look like them, vote like them, and pray like them.
Gerrymandering, or the political act of grouping conservative or liberal voters in a district has led to candidates that are more ideologically extreme.
There also seems to be just a general lack of civility. People arguing are quick to insult, or to simply disengage altogether.
What is the cause of our polarized environment? Is it one of these explanations, or something else entirely? Why are we so antagonistic?
Related questions: How can we encourage debate? How do you know who to trust? Angry or afraid? What makes a community?
Listen Or Speak Out?
In an environment like the current one, it can be hard to know what to do. For example, is it better to speak out and start a dialogue? Or to listen to those around you, who have different experiences and worldviews?
Share why of you wish.
What Direct Experience Do You Have With Law Enforcement?
Have you had any notable interaction with someone from the police department? Do you have direct experience with law enforcement?
Share why if you wish.