The Battle For Our Better Angels: A Journey into the Heart of the American Struggle

In the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election, America is more divided than ever before. Polarization has become the norm, and empathy has become a rare commodity. In this climate of fear and division, it is more important than ever to find ways to bridge the gap between us and to work together to build a better future.

In his new book, "The Battle For Our Better Angels," Steven Pinker argues that we are not doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past. He believes that we have the potential to overcome our differences and to create a more just and equitable world. But to do so, we must first understand the forces that are driving polarization and division.

The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels

by Jon Meacham

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	51601 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages

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The Forces Driving Polarization

Pinker identifies several forces that are contributing to the polarization of American society. These include:

• The rise of social media. Social media has created a space where people can connect with others who share their views, while avoiding those who disagree with them. This has led to the formation of echo chambers, where people are only exposed to information that confirms their existing beliefs.
• The decline of local news. The decline of local news has led to a decrease in the amount of information that people have about their communities. This has made it easier for politicians and other leaders to spread misinformation and to divide people along partisan lines.
• The increasing economic inequality. The increasing economic inequality in America has led to a sense of resentment and anger among many people. This has made it easier for politicians to scapegoat immigrants, minorities, and other groups.

The Power of Empathy

Pinker argues that empathy is the key to overcoming polarization and division. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It allows us to see the world through their eyes and to understand their motivations. When we have empathy for others, it is more difficult to demonize them or to dismiss their concerns.

Pinker provides several examples of how empathy can be used to bridge the gap between people. He tells the story of a white woman who became friends with a black man after she learned about the challenges he faced growing up in a racist society. He also tells the story of a Muslim woman who was able to overcome her fear of Christians after she met a group of Christians who were kind and welcoming.

The Battle For Our Better Angels

Pinker believes that we are at a crossroads. We can either succumb to the forces of division and polarization, or we can choose to fight for our better angels. He urges us to choose hope over fear and to work together to build a better future.

The battle for our better angels will not be easy, but it is a fight that we cannot afford to lose. If we want to create a more just and equitable world, we must first learn to understand and empathize with each other.

The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels

by Jon Meacham

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	51601 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages

FREE