October Resources

It takes moral courage to stand up for one’s belief despite fear of rejection and disapproval. In an article for The Atlantic, social scientist Arthur C. Brooks explained how people can build moral courage and develop the skills to share divergent opinions, speak more authentically about their beliefs, and break out of conformity.

In an interview with Abby Skeans on the Building Beliefs podcast, our Executive Director, Jenn Hoos Rothberg discussed how the lack of empathy, understanding, and connection between people fuels social and political polarization and the practical tools we can use to overcome divisions and promote collaboration across differences.

Building H just released its latest Index, which rates and ranks 76 popular consumer products based on their impact on consumer health and five essential health behaviors: eating, physical activity, sleeping, engaging socially, and time spent outdoors. The report can help companies better understand the importance and potential of designing for healthy connection.

The Nantahala River in North Carolina has become an unlikely spot for an experiment in bridging divides. About 30 Americans from different political backgrounds gathered there to navigate the river and explore the possibility of countering polarization and forming friendships across lines of difference.

A new report from Daniel Stid, a visiting fellow at SNF Agora Institute, Johns Hopkins University, explored how philanthropy has contributed to polarization and how funders can help reverse this trend by practicing “responsible pluralism.” Pressed for time? This Busy Reader’s Guide will help.

“Our dream is to convince the country it’s our patriotic duty to see the humanity in people with whom we disagree,” said Dave Isay, Founder and President of StoryCorps, about the One Small Step initiative. By getting people to talk to each other on a human level, One Small Step hopes participants will develop empathy and understanding for those on the other side of the political aisle. Sign up for a conversation today.