We know there’s a lot of political analysis and conversation out there online. In fact, sometimes it feels impossible to avoid.
But the vast majority of our media eco-system has become polarized and predictable. Rather than engaging the issues in good faith, looking at the facts, and examining both sides of an argument to arrive at a deeply-considered conclusion, too many media sources turn first to emotion and reinforcing bias. “Debate” has too often become two sides talking past one another — lobbing partisan talking points without really listening to what the other side is saying.
Better Angels Media is building a new way of talking politics. We are a growing network of writers, thinkers, and ordinary citizens who are challenging the partisan media complex. We’re not necessarily centrist; in fact, many of us hold strong political and ideological views. We are, however, committed to a more honest, constructive form of public discourse — one that deals in substance, empathy, humility, and meaningful engagement with the “other side’s” point of view. We recognize the value of disagreement, of clarifying difference to illuminate commonality and to arrive at a higher understanding that allows us to move forward as a country. We’re against reflexive polarization — and we’re not afraid to call it out.
Better Angels Media (BAM) is in its infancy. We have a few regular contributors, and we are looking to expand — quickly. In the coming weeks, we’ll be launching our initial flagship products, including weekly podcasts in which we bring together red and blue guests — not to “win” the debate or change each others’ minds, but to to express their views, better understand differing points of views, and challenge the extreme polarization that threatens our core institutions.
As we grow the network, we’ll be sending regular updates and rundowns of new content. We’ll be launching essays, blog posts, podcasts, and videos as time and resources commit. We’ll be going on the radio and TV. We’ll be working hand in hand with Better Angels organizers and moderators on the ground to lift up their activities in local communities. And we’ll always seek to challenge and enrich our own views along the way.
Please check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube — then share these pages with your friends. If you’re interested in raising your voice — penning a piece, recording a podcast, filming a video, what have you — shoot us an email at media@better-angels.org. We envision this as a community ensemble, not a solo broadcast.
Last but not least, we’ll be seeking support — from partners, from foundations, and from anyone who wants to bridge our divide and stand up to those who would keep us divided. If you believe that polarization is a problem, if you recognize the value of different points of view, if you know that empathizing with other perspectives is not akin to surrendering your own, join our network. And if you want to make a contribution to support our growth, we would be so grateful.
Thanks for reading. Please feel free to share this with anyone you know who might be interested. More soon!
