Seeking Common Ground: Conversations Across the Divide
Six in ten U.S. adults say it’s “stressful and frustrating” to have conversations about politics with those they disagree with, according to a September 2023 report from the Pew Research Center. That number is the same for respondents from both major political parties.
With such deep divisions over politics and other contentious topics, NPR Network reporters explore how Americans are talking to each other during these divided times. Stories published as part of this week-long series will appear here.
With such deep divisions over politics and other contentious topics, NPR Network reporters explore how Americans are talking to each other during these divided times. Stories published as part of this week-long series will appear here.
-
One believes in total abortion rights. The other is against abortion in all circumstances. They're cousins, as close as sisters, and have come together with understanding on this truly divisive topic.
-
At the Pittsburgh Sword Fighters club, members are asked to leave their politics at the door, a rule that has led to closer relationships and more learning from one another. -
A California couple's relationship was upended when one partner found a whole new set of beliefs after an overnight video binge. Four years later, they're still navigating how to talk about politics. -
A 2022 survey found growing numbers of Republicans and Democrats think the other side is immoral and dishonest. Psychology and neuroscience research offers tools to help bridge that divide. -
In the Pacific Northwest, an informal group of community members meets every week to discuss their disagreements. While they often differ on political views, they enjoy the face-to-face engagement. -
A Pennsylvania church just blocks from where then-candidate Donald Trump's would-be assassin lived created a sermon series on the Golden Rule to try to bridge political divisions in its congregation. -
Members of the North Fork Community Choir in Paonia, Colo., aim to set aside their opinions on big topics when they sing. When differences arise, they figure out creative solutions to stay in harmony.
