THE CHRONICLE OF PHILANTHROPY: “Philanthropy’s Job in Polarized America: Make Partners of Enemies, a New Poll Says”
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, November 13, 2023
by Drew Lindsay
Excerpts
“Bridge-building in pursuit of consensus is likely to backfire, particularly if participants aren’t confident about their place in society, says Chris Bullivant, who leads the Social Capital Campaign, a policy-advocacy effort to improve civil society. “If you feel economically insecure and perceive yourself to be marginalized, feeling forced to agree with something you disagree with may only make you feel more powerless and disconnected.”
“…Others see strengthening the family as critical to repairing the country’s torn social fabric. The Social Capital Campaign promotes a mix of conservative and liberal ideas, including paid family leave, a “super” child tax credit, promotion of marriage, and an enhanced role for faith-based groups in providing for children…
“Declines in family stability and affordability correlate with diminished social connection and increasing polarization, Bullivant says. “We’re looking at what federal policy can do to help or hinder the growth of those things that happen outside of government” to strengthen civil society.”
READ IN FULL AT EITHER:
“A Civil Society. Celebrating Diversity of Opinion.”
Chris Bullivant
April 2023
