Americans are increasingly divided along social and political lines. The evidence for this polarization can be found in our most intimate relationships and in our most public policy debates. Political scientists are finding that more and more people are either all-liberal or all-conservative in their political positions—and so are the politicians they elect, as reflected in their votes ...
What Is the Bridging Differences Playbook? Under our Bridging Differences program, we have reviewed decades of scientific studies, interviewed dozens of leaders, and surveyed the landscape of relevant programs. From this work we have collected enduring wisdom and best practices for bridging political, racial, religious, or other divides.
There are many misconceptions about bridging differences, so we consulted with researchers and practitioners to clarify what it is—and what it isn’t.
That is why we work to cultivate the will and practice the skills for bridging gaps and crossing lines of difference to solve pressing problems, on campuses, in workplaces, congregations, organizations and communities. At this moment, this is counter-cultural work.
The Power of Bridging breaks down four key terms: bridging, belonging, othering, and breaking. In the book, powell explains what it means to truly belong or feel connected to oneself and to people, and what it feels like when we engage in breaking, or denying the full stories, complexities, or humanity of those we consider “other.”
Can We Build a World Where We All Belong? - Greater Good
In response to these trends, since 2021 we have supported more than 200 campus leaders—students, faculty, staff, and administrators—through the Bridging Differences in Higher Education Learning Fellowship that we run through our Bridging Differences program at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center (GGSC). As part of the fellowship, participants learn research-based strategies for ...