Here is what I think.
I agree with the video speaker that hatred based on tribalism (group) was created/used to break up Yugoslavia. To avoid break up, we need to manage and minimize tribalism… to emphasize common grounds and deemphasize differences.
I was outraged and heartbroken…
When I saw the World Trade Center attack on 9/11.
I was outraged and heartbroken…
When I saw the Capitol attack on 1/6.
But, this time, it was even worse because it came from within.
I said during the riots in Portland and Seattle…
*Peaceful demonstration: Yes. (First Amendment)
*Riot: No. They should be stopped, arrested, and fully prosecuted.
The same applies here for the Capitol rioters.
My worry grows deeper every day when I see more and more partisan polarization. We exaggerate and demonize the other side… breaking up families, siblings, friends. Each side wants to shut up the other side. What happened to one of the key American value: I disagree with what you say, but I will protect your right to say it.
Even without stoking, human nature tends to default to “tribalism” for self-protection. Tribalism can follow multiple dimensions as we move from era to era: Politics, race, ethnicity, sex, religion, geography, wealth, education, profession, etc. To change human nature is a tall order. Nonetheless, the ugly aspects of tribalism need to be reined in as much as possible for everyone’s benefit.
It is a little dimmer, but we are still the brightest light-house in the world. Tragedy many times brings people together. We, with most of the people are moderates, will recover.
I pray… God bless America.
“Life is like a chess game… changing with each move.”
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