On with Kara Swisher The Politics of Disagreement with Steve Inskeep
Oct 12, 2023
Steve Inskeep, NPR journalist and author of "Differ We Must," discusses the art of navigating disagreement by looking to Abraham Lincoln's political genius during a divided era. He illustrates how Lincoln fostered coalitions and embraced differing viewpoints, offering insights for today's polarized climate. The conversation also creatively imagines Lincoln's potential social media presence while critiquing the current political landscape and the challenges of journalistic objectivity. Inskeep's reflections make for a thought-provoking exploration of politics, past and present.
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Majority over Partisanship
- Lincoln was a partisan, yet he prioritized building majorities.
- This skill, often forgotten today, is crucial for achieving political goals in a democracy.
Lincoln and the Nativists
- Lincoln collaborated with nativists despite finding their views repulsive.
- He recognized their power due to their voting influence and sought their support.
Interests over Beliefs
- Lincoln focused on people's interests rather than beliefs.
- This allowed him to find common ground and build collaborations, even with those holding different moral views.
