"It's impossible to ignore the tension in the air right now. Acts of political violence, heated debates, and deepening division leave many of us feeling bewildered, frustrated, and even helpless. In times like these, our instinct can be to double down on our perspective or point fingers outward. One of the drivers of polarization is the sense that acknowledging another group's struggles somehow diminishes our own. Humility, if we are open to it, offers another path."
"We can try a humble habit that is a simple yet powerful practice: reflect on a privilege you benefit from. This could be a social or professional position, an opportunity, a platform, or an identity factor that eases your way in the world. Consider what is unique about your life that gives you a leg up in society. When people practice reflecting on their privileges, whether social, economic, or situational, it can create more openness to discussions surrounding inequality."
Political polarization and recent acts of political violence, heated debates, and deepening division create widespread bewilderment, frustration, and helplessness. Many respond by entrenching their perspectives or blaming others, fueled by the belief that acknowledging another group's struggles diminishes one's own. Practicing humility by reflecting on personal privileges—such as social status, professional roles, opportunities, platforms, or identity factors—can open people to conversations about inequality. Studies show that acknowledging advantages strengthens empathy, perspective-taking, fairness-oriented behavior, and constructive relationships. Awareness of structural support for success disrupts the myth of self-sufficiency and encourages responsible, prosocial use of privilege.
Read at Psychology Today
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