The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge MOORE BUTTS #23: Disagree Better -- Is That Even Possible?
Sep 16, 2025
Gerry Butts, former principal secretary to Justin Trudeau, joins James Moore to tackle the pressing question of how to 'disagree better.' They explore the fine line between respectful discourse and hate in today's divided climate. The conversation navigates the shift from inspiring voters to inciting them and compares political landscapes in Canada and the U.S. With a focus on empathy, grassroots connections, and the role of technology, they advocate for nonpartisan dialogue and discuss the impact of AI on job opportunities for youth.
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Politics As A Release Valve
- Politics often acts as a release valve, letting leaders channel public anger through theatrical confrontation.
- That dynamic works until it weaponizes anger and escalates beyond control.
Disagreement Is Social Media Currency
- Social media rewards anger and provocation because disagreement is the currency that drives attention.
- That incentive structure pushes users and politicians toward dehumanizing opponents for reach.
Infrastructure Turns Fringe Into Mainstream
- Charlie Kirk built organizational infrastructure that absorbed fringe views into mainstream Republican politics.
- His role shows how digital organizing can translate cultural influence into electoral power.