El País: Globalization of Polarization

Some political camps reject their opponents’ plans so much – even those supported by hefty majorities of citizens – that they refuse any cooperation, preferring shutdowns and chaos. Such is the case in the United States, Great Britain and numerous other democracies. The angry stubbornness associated with polarization is spreading worldwide, weakening most democracies. “Before, democratic governments managed to reach agreements with their opponents or could organize coalitions that allowed them to make decisions and effectively govern,” explains Moisés Naím for El País.” Now, political rivals often mutate into irreconcilable enemies, which makes agreements, compromises or coalitions impossible.”Naím blames the intolerance on inequality, economic uncertainty and short messages of social media that favor emotions and extremism. Increasing numbers of citizens are so angry that they avoid politics and join groups based on exclusive and rigid identities. He also tries to see a positive - that such polarization will also attack corrupt or ineffective governments. However, cooperation is eventually required to resolve the big challenges. - YaleGlobal