The science of communicating hope

Are human beings fundamentally good and capable of change, healing, and growth? ...Or are we selfish individuals who must be kept in check?

Those who push a dark, divisive vision of humanity are highly organized in using social media to spread their stories. We must be just as strategic and collaborative in telling and amplifying stories that foste

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Today’s political landscape is shaped by forces investing heavily in spreading fear and division. Given that fear is a dominant force in our culture, it’s no surprise that it defines much of our politics.

f we want to build lasting movements that transform attitudes, behaviors, and culture (ABC strategy!), we need to organize around a shared goal.

The insight that changed everything for me came from neuroscience: all human beings have a fight-or-flight response. When we are in fear mode, our capacity to understand the perspectives of those different from us shuts down. Fear primes us for self-interest.

It’s common sense: if we sense danger, we instinctively take care of ourselves and our gro... See more