Learn to see nuance

When talking to people about any number of emotionally charged topics, I have noticed a trend. There is a tendency to see people and situations in a very black-and-white way. This isn’t new, but it seems to me to be more prevalent than it used to be. How do we get beyond the polarisation that we see in the world today? If we can better understand ourselves and the world, more nuance is required. 

I frequently hear people making comments with great conviction judging others and making sweeping generalisations.  A peace proposal is seen as being an apologist for an aggressor or dictator.  A sincere question or call for further investigation about a medical intervention may be called anti-science.  One disagrees with another person's worldview and is labelled right wing.  It has become far too commonplace to label people or opinions and put them in boxes without any reflection or critical thinking. It may be easier and more convenient but it is not a helpful way to better understand the world. 

If you judge and generalise with people or situations you don’t know well you may want to reflect on whether you also do this in your day-to-day life.  This approach can not only lead to prejudice but also cause friction in your relationships and in your social circles.  It can undermine a sense of community in the same way that someone who spreads gossip causes harm and mistrust in their community. 

When you try to argue for an opinion that is contrary to your own view it is referred to as steel-manning an argument.  This is a commonly used exercise to prepare for a debate but it can also be a great tool to challenge your own opinions and try to gain a new perspective.  Doing so can give more clarity and context to what you believe on any number of topics from current events to common situations in your personal life. 

Both on a personal and a cultural level, we will have a more positive effect on those around us and experience the world in a healthier way if we apply more empathy and try to look at things with more nuance.  You can start by stepping back and looking at things from different perspectives. You can pause and reflect when you find yourself jumping to conclusions.  And you can try to make decisions out of love rather than fear. Look for different sources of information rather than allowing one opinion or set of facts to form your opinion.  A nuanced way of looking at the world will lead to better solutions and more constructive actions.  It will also allow more happiness in your life.