Braver Angels and a Model for Interaction

[Randy]

I’ve been reading the “Braver Angels” site, recommended by Francis Collins in his book, “The Road to Wisdom.” I appreciate their ways of interacting. I wonder what you think, and if you have already joined, or plan to do so; and why (or why not).

Thank you.

Our Mission - Braver Angels

It appears that the mission is to show value and respect by listening, even if we strongly disagree with the other side.

The Braver Angels Way

We state our views freely and fully, without fear.

We treat people who disagree with us with honesty, dignity and respect.

We welcome opportunities to engage those with whom we disagree.

We believe all of us have blind spots and none of us are not worth talking to.

We seek to disagree accurately, avoiding exaggeration and stereotypes.

We look for common ground where it exists and, if possible, find ways to work together.

We believe that, in disagreements, both sides share and learn.

In Braver Angels, neither side is teaching the other or giving feedback on how to think or say things differently.

[Kendel]

Those beliefs are lofty goals. Valuable, but would take a lifetime of training and practice. Does the book talk about the process of learning these things and how to master them?

[Randy]

Thanks. Yes, he talks about how he learns to talk and listen (first, he asks, “Why did you come to the point of view you did?”).

He applied it particularly to communicating with folks who were upset with the pandemic; but suggested we talk about this with regard to faith, etc, too. I identify with his position, and he definitely is a teacher; but I found it helpful to see how he first asks, now, how the others came to their points of view. He did not budge from the science, but endeavored to give others the time to talk. I’d be interested in hearing what everyone thinks.

Thanks.

The Road to Wisdom Pledge - Braver Angels
Here is his pledge.

I pledge that from this day forward I will seek to be part of the solution to our society’s widespread divisiveness, which is hurting individuals, families, communities, our nation, and our world.

I will actively seek out opportunities to engage in dialogue with those who have different views from mine; by respectful listening, I will strive to understand their perspectives better, to identify our shared deeper values, and to build a bridge across the gap that has divided us.

When sifting incoming information, I will seek to be a wise consumer. Taking into account my own biases, I will carefully assess the plausibility of the claim as well as the integrity, competence, and humility of the source, in order to decide whether the information is likely to be trustworthy.

I will resist the temptation to speak about, write about, or share on social media information that claims to be true but is of uncertain validity.

I will bring a generous spirit to all my interpersonal interactions, refusing to ascribe evil intentions to others simply because of different political or societal beliefs. I will be slow to take offense. Loving my neighbor will be my goal.