Thomas G. Plante, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist, tplante@scu.edu, Santa Clara University and Stanford University School of Medicine, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA, 95053
Tragically, divisiveness and polarization is not only typical in our society but is getting much worse. These troubling trends also find their way into the psychology field, the American Psychological Association, and even within Division 36, a division that focuses on the psychology of religion and spirituality. Divisiveness is a toxin that invades and trickles down into every nook and cranny of society. Faith traditions are susceptible to these trends and especially those who engage in proselytizing or messages that their traditions are correct and sanctified by the divine while others are not and even dangerous. Countless wars have been waged over these divisions between religious groups. Divisions are common not only between religious traditions but within them as well and typically are based on a conservative – liberal perspective. In this presentation, a three-point approach for better dealing with divisiveness will be offered. The model has its roots in the spiritual exercises and writings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits. It will be presented in a secular manner that would appeal to diverse religious and non-religious groups. The three-step model includes: (1) accommodation to others, (2) humility, and (3) the expectation of goodness. Then, core civility principles and procedures adopted by the American Psychological Association as policy will be presented to provide a practical strategy that encourages not only civility but also respectful and compassionate dialogue among those who may be disagreeable with each other. Spiritual and religious principles found within many religious traditions (e.g., the Golden Rule) can be secularized appealing to diverse audiences. This strategy has worked well with mindfulness, yoga, and other techniques. This can be used with civility as well in efforts to turn the tide from divisiveness to unity and even to solidarity.
Video: https://www.dropbox.com/s/c9dky6049cbra82/APA%202022%20Interfaith%20Dialogue%20%28Plante%29.mp4?dl=0
