Talking to Ourselves

The best ideas emerge when people hear out all opposing points of view. Unfortunately, Americans are less willing to attend lectures, read books or listen to radio that might offer new points of view. Instead, many increasingly read or listen to commentary that reinforces their beliefs. “Indeed, virtually everywhere I speak, 95% of the audience shares my political and cultural views – and serious conservatives report exactly the same experience on the lecture circuit,” writes Susan Jacoby for the Los Angeles Times. Of course, people who support various political causes should not be expected to endure verbal abuse or insults. But all should be prepared to listen thoughtfully to evidence, reasons and recommendations. Jacoby writes, “As long as we continue to avoid the hard work of scrutinizing public affairs without the filter of polemical shouting heads, we have no one to blame for the governing class and its policies but ourselves.” She concludes that ignoring the opposition is a threat to democracy. – YaleGlobal