Episode 16: David Blankenhorn - Braver Angels

David Blankenhorn is the co-founder and president of Braver Angels. During our conversation, David talks about why Braver Angels exists, tribalism and division in the United States, Braver Angels' goal of depolarizing American society, the workshops it runs with "red" and "blue" Americans, and its workshop's success at discovering shared values and greater understanding among politically-opposed citizens.

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Show notes

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(00:00) Intro

(01:02) About David Blankenhorn

(02:58) David shares the circumstances that led him to found Braver Angels

(06:43) David talks about the various elements needed to bring people together for a better society

(07:44) David shares why he feels we’re in the third big era of polarization

(09:53) Can we create a society where people who vehemently disagree with each other can still get along?

(15:33) David explains why and how he changed his mind on topics once very important to him

(20:22) David talks about disapproving gay marriages and coming to accept it

(35:17) Why does society not allow its citizens to change their minds without major repercussions?

(45:08) Social virtues and collective beliefs and how they have kept political stridency at bay for a period of American history

(51:16) About Robert Putnam’s book, The Upswing

(57:10) What is the role of smartphones and social media platforms in polarization

(01:04:39) The mission and goals of Braver Angels

(01:31:02) David explains why “We're a lot less divided” than people commonly believe

(01:43:54) What does David mean by braver politics?

(01:48:27) What is the best way for people to help Braver Angels?