Hanna Rosin, host of Radio Atlantic, and Lauren Ober, co-host of their new series, delve into their surprising encounters with January 6th insurrection supporters who became their neighbors. They navigate the tense ideological divide in their community, sharing experiences that highlight empathy and human connection. The conversation reflects on radicalization, the media's role in shaping narratives, and the emotional toll of political polarization. Their reflections also touch on community identity, activism, and the haunting legacy of the Capitol riot.
The encounter with neighbors who support the January 6th insurrection illustrates the stark societal divisions impacting community relationships today.
Building trust through unfamiliar social contexts, such as public vigils, highlights the potential for understanding opposing narratives despite initial discomfort.
Deep dives
Confronting New Realities
The encounter with neighbors supporting the January 6th insurrection symbolizes a growing divide in society. A couple's dog walk led to a startling confrontation with a neighbor who openly supported the events of January 6th, revealing stark differences in beliefs within a once-cohesive community. The response of the couple reflects a mix of surprise and bewilderment, questioning the implications of living near individuals with such radical views. This dissonance not only affects personal interactions but also prompts a broader reflection on societal divisions as upcoming elections loom.
Building Unexpected Relationships
The process of familiarizing oneself with neighbors who hold opposing views showcases a unique challenge in modern America. Building trust proved necessary, despite the initial discomfort stemming from encounters with militia supporters. Attending public vigils for January 6th detainees provided a platform for connection, demonstrating that stepping into unfamiliar social contexts can lead to understanding those often deemed 'other'. This dialogue highlights how encountering opposing narratives can spark curiosity rather than hostility, revealing the complexities of human relationships.
The Myth of the January 6th Narrative
Observing how narratives around January 6th have transformed reveals the power of collective memory in shaping public perception. The vigil for detainees presented distorted historical interpretations, portraying individuals as martyrs rather than participants in an insurrection. This revisionism mirrors tactics seen in authoritarian regimes, where facts are manipulated to persuade the public of an alternate reality. Such a situation emphasizes the urgency of understanding how beliefs can alter perceptions of truth, complicating political dialogues in America.
The Humanization of the 'Other'
Establishing human connections with individuals involved in the January 6th insurrection challenges conventional narratives and perceptions of morality. By immersing oneself in the lives of neighbors, one uncovers the personal tragedies and fundamental humanity that coexist with radical beliefs. Conversations can lead to insights about personal experiences, motivations, and grievances that drive these ideologies, revealing the complex nature of identity. This nuanced perspective encourages open dialogues aimed at understanding rather than merely judging, promoting the possibility of bridging deep societal divides.
Hosts Anne Applebaum and Peter Pomerantsev talk with Hanna Rosin about the new series We Live Here Now. Rosin, along with her co-host, Lauren Ober, recently found out that their new neighbors moved to Washington, D.C., to support January 6 insurrectionists. They knocked on their door. We Live Here Now is a podcast series about what happened next. Subscribe to We Live Here Now here: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | iHeart
Autocracy in America is produced by The Atlantic and made possible with support from the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University, an academic and public forum dedicated to strengthening global democracy through powerful civic engagement and informed, inclusive dialogue.
Music by Rob Smierciak (“Mystery March”).
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