Review: I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening): A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations

I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening): A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations by Sarah Stewart Holland
I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening): A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations by Sarah Stewart Holland
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In general, this is a heart-warming book by two people trying to do their best to bridge the divides that are so prevalent within our culture, particularly along political lines. It's refreshing and appreciated in that regard and it comes clearly from a place of wanting to recognize the dignity and humanity (or "grace" as they say) of each human. In that regard, wanting to recognize our respective humanity and a willingness to try to understand, I am trying to do so with these authors as well. Because I do appreciate their efforts and their desire, I think they do fall short in some profound ways. Their goals to bridge the divide with at least listening and a recognition of the nuance that permeates nearly all issues we encounter is certainly important. They provide numerous examples of this that help to highlight how we are all more nuanced about the issues that we may typically show in the all-or-nothing environment that we find ourselves in. Yet, the book felt too simple in its willingness to look past the fact that there are issues, nuanced or not, that are being discussed that do represent the oppression of humanity and dignity they so strongly defend. In a broad way, there work is reminiscent of the "Eat Cake" SNL skit with Tina Fey. It feels good and above the fray but in doing so, also minimizes the real ways in which people are deeply affected by politics. Yes, we can all come together for conversation but in a world where decisions are to be made, the outcomes do matter beyond just being able to get along. In that way, the book feels like its goal is to return to a mythical yesteryear when we got along despite politics (keeping in mind that the marginalized folks were brutally forced to get along), and ignore that talking and getting along or ease tensions with other sides seems a poor effort to make people feel good rather than face the issues that real people are dealing with.

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