TED Talks Daily How to bridge political divides — from two friends on opposing sides | Samar Ali and Clint Brewer
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Mar 5, 2024 
Samar Ali, a law professor and practicing Muslim American from Tennessee, joins public affairs strategist Clint Brewer to discuss their unlikely friendship amid political polarization. They share personal narratives that reveal how effective communication can overcome deep divides. Highlighting the dangers of a 'scare script' that demonizes opponents, they advocate for courageous conversations and community engagement as vital tools for fostering understanding and collaboration in a divided world.
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Frenemyship for Pluralism
- Samar Ali and Clint Brewer, despite differing backgrounds and beliefs, maintain a 'frenemyship'.
- Their contrasting views and heated arguments sometimes lead to months of no contact, yet they consistently reunite to collaborate on building a more pluralistic society.
Contrasting Backgrounds
- Samar Ali, a Muslim American from rural Tennessee, developed a passion for peacemaking due to her diverse background and experiences in the Middle East.
- Clint Brewer, a communicator and public affairs strategist, honed his writing skills through journalism and aims to bridge divides through communication.
The Scare Script and Polarization
- Polarization, driven by a 'scare script', fuels animosity, blame, fear, anger, and even violence towards demonized groups.
- This process, amplified by online algorithms and disinformation, erodes trust and democratic principles, benefiting conflict profiteers.