Ideas A lesson on why NOT to engage in polarized discussions
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Jul 14, 2025 Shalini Satkunanandan, a political theorist from UC Davis, and Jeff Church, a political science professor at the University of Houston, dive into the art of dialogue in today's polarized climate. They discuss how Nietzsche’s philosophy can guide us in navigating differences without confrontation. Satkunanandan highlights the necessity of 'passing by' instead of engaging in divisive debates, promoting silence as a thoughtful response. Their conversation explores how acknowledging varying beliefs can cultivate better understanding and enhance emotional resilience.
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Practice "Passing By" in Debate
- Passing by involves hesitating before engagement and sometimes choosing not to contest political disagreements.
- It helps mitigate resentment and allows for more creative new ways of engagement and value creation.
Step Back to Innovate Values
- Constant political participation using established frames limits our ability to imagine new values and worldviews.
- Taking a step back can help us gain new perspectives and innovate beyond received debates.
Overcome Revenge with Acceptance
- Vengefulness fixes us in reactive opposition to the past and prevents creative value creation.
- Accepting the present and its history is essential for transformative engagement and new values.
