What Fuels the Extremity of Divisiveness in the United States?
The United States has increasingly become a land of sharp divisions and intense polarization. Technology, government policies, and media conglomerates all contribute to this extreme divisiveness. But the question remains: who or what is most responsible?
The Technological Age
The advent of technological gadgets and the wide availability of internet access have transformed our world. The internet has opened a submarine door, allowing anyone to access the vast expanse of the World Wide Web. However, with this new accessibility comes a deluge of information, some of which is unverified and harmful. The spread of ungrounded information and random fact flinging has significant real-world repercussions, often leading to exacerbation of societal divisions.
Government Policies and Resource Allocation
It's difficult to ignore that not all segments of society are equally served. Government policies and resource allocation have historically favored certain groups over others. One of the longest-standing injustices is the disproportionate spending on wars, threatening reductions in critical social programs like Social Security. The privatization of essential services, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, is another area of concern. Drug manufacturers have been able to control crucial healthcare needs, leading to exorbitant costs for necessary medications. These issues highlight the ways in which government policies can exacerbate division and inequality.
The Role of Media: From Reporters to Opinion Makers
The news media has also played a significant role in fostering divisiveness. Historically, the media's primary role was to report facts and present various viewpoints. However, over time, the media has evolved to form opinions rather than simply report them. This shift means that the media not only informs but also persuades and influences public opinion. This transformation has contributed to the polarized nature of American society, as people are more likely to receive and share information that reinforces their pre-existing beliefs.
The Impact of Religious Leaders
Religious leaders on both sides of the spectrum have also played a role in exacerbating divisiveness. The desire to shape a homogeneous, conformist society has led religious leaders to exclude those who do not align with their views. This exclusionary approach is evident in the current discourse around diversity, where those who do not fully commit to a specific ideology are denigrated and marginalized.
The Manipulation of Polarization
Political leaders and those in power often benefit from this divisiveness. By pitting people against one another, they can solidify their position and maintain control. This manipulation can be traced back to events such as the "silent majority" and "campus crusaders" of the 1970s, where divisions in society were first exacerbated. The "everyone gets a medal" mentality of the 1980s further entrenched the idea that equal success was not always possible. Today, advocates of "diversity" often invoke exclusionary rhetoric, leading to a stark "us versus them" mentality.
The Extremes of Confirmation Bias in Modern Conflict
Modern conflicts have reached new heights, not just in terms of rejecting philosophy, but in rejecting individuals themselves. This can be seen in the treatment of Supreme Court nominees. Rejections based on policy stances are one thing, but the current trend of personal attacks and unprovable allegations is a concerning development. The media often fuels these conflicts, feeding on the drama and sensationalism that these tactics generate.
Breaking Down the Divide
To combat divisiveness, it's crucial to take personal action. Turning off the news and engaging with neighbors can help bridge some of the gaps in understanding and empathy. Accepting that people with different beliefs are still valuable individuals is a fundamental step toward healing societal divisions. We must strive to be more inclusive, recognizing the importance of dialogue and understanding across differing viewpoints.
Overall, the responsibility for the extreme divisiveness in the United States lies in many hands, but by recognizing the root causes and taking action, we can work towards a more unified and understanding society.