Jul 15, 2020
At one and the same time, in today's U.S. culture, as well as
around the world, the majority of people are coming together in
this time of pandemic and efforts to reform racial injustice, while
also, when it comes to politics, most observers report a level of
hostile polarization that we have rarely seen. Animosity toward
those we disagree with is high. And then there's religion, which at
its core is generally unifying, centered on beautiful principles
that call us to see each other as fellow human beings under God or,
if not theistic, in the universe of relations. If that's so, why
this antagonism to those "other people" who dare to choose this or
that political leader or set of policies and emphases. Are they
stupid? Deceived? Evil?
LDF host Dan Wotherspoon is joined today by two
Latter-day Saint friends, Jenne Alderks and
Walt Wood, whose political views often differ from
each other but who don't have it in their hearts to demonize and
completely dismiss those who differ with them. In the episode, Dan,
Jenne, and Walt wrestle with the dynamics at play today, especially
in the areas of politics and religion, while also keeping an eye on
our needs to self-examine continually, especially in the ways that
can lead to deep, personal changes (as we determine needs) and more
generosity in today's highly polarized social landscape. What is
the role of social media in causing this polarization? What is it
that underlies the anger that is such clear display these days? How
might understanding that lead us to wider perspectives and greater
compassion toward others?
How can everyone along any spectrum find scriptural or other forms
of authoritative support for their version of things,
leaving religion without its full power to call us toward community
and the interests of the group over those of us individually? What
causes societal shifts? And when a society comes together over
something, why do the enthusiasms die down and individualistic
tendencies return to transcendence? And much more!
There's much in this episode to think on and that, hopefully, can
lead us all to greater self examination and the type of deepened
spirituality which can lead us to call our opponents "blessed."
Listen in!