The Case for an Engaged Middle in Polarized Times
A psychologist argues that the nation's struggles have psychological and spiritual roots, not only political or cultural ones. He calls for an engaged middle ground based on presence, openness to experience, and discernment, rather than a passive compromise. The article says leaders with this mindset are needed for society to survive and thrive.
A psychologist with four decades of clinical practice contends that America’s difficulties are not solely political or cultural but also psychological and spiritual. He asks whether people can coexist while holding opposing beliefs, and he notes that historical power centers often relied on fixed doctrine, inherited status, or reactionary force.
He points to the play Schmigadoon! as a metaphor for the American story: a seemingly harmonious town reveals exclusion and rigidity when outsiders arrive, yet also shows cracks that allow hidden identities and emotional growth. The author concludes that society needs leaders who embody an active, thoughtful center.
This perspective could resonate with readers who feel exhausted by polarization, offering a mental-health frame for civic stress. It may encourage dialogue across differences, though its call for a particular leadership mindset could be seen as idealistic. Therapists, community leaders, and politically weary individuals might find language for balancing openness with judgment. Its impact likely depends on whether readers apply these ideas locally rather than as a partisan program.