Beyond Politics: Finding Common Ground in a Divided World

Are we as divided as we think?

Turn on the news, and it seems like we’re more divided than ever. But is that the full picture? In reality, most people share more common ground than they realize.

This post explores how we can shift the conversation from division to unity, using open discussions, shared goals, and community-driven solutions to tackle the biggest challenges we face.

The Perception Gap: Why We Feel More Divided Than We Are

Recent research from the More in Common organization revealed a fascinating phenomenon they call “the Perception Gap”—we consistently overestimate how extreme the other side’s views are. In their studies, the average American believes that twice as many people on the opposing side hold extreme views than actually do.

This misperception is fueled by:

• Media ecosystems that amplify the most outrageous voices
• Social media algorithms that reward divisive content
• Political fundraising that thrives on fear of “the other side”
• Limited personal contact with people who think differently

The result? We’re operating with distorted maps of our social landscape, making productive conversation seem impossible when it might actually be within reach.

Finding the Hidden Consensus

Despite headline-grabbing conflicts, substantial research shows Americans agree on more than they disagree:

• 93% believe all children deserve quality education regardless of background
• 89% want clean air and water for future generations
• 87% believe we should treat all people with dignity and respect
• 82% want affordable healthcare for all citizens
• 77% believe our communities should support those truly in need

These shared values provide fertile ground for connection—if we can move past partisan framing to focus on common goals.

How to Have Productive Conversations Across Political Lines

1. Start With Shared Identities, Not Political Labels

We all wear multiple identity hats—parent, neighbor, sports fan, music lover, professional, hobbyist. Beginning conversations through these shared identities creates connection before introducing potentially divisive topics.

Try this: Instead of organizing politically-themed discussions, create spaces centered around shared interests or concerns—a parents’ group discussing education, a neighborhood safety initiative, or a local history project.

2. Ask Questions That Reveal Values, Not Positions

Rather than asking for opinions on policies (which often trigger rehearsed talking points), ask questions that explore underlying values:

• “What made you care about this issue in the first place?”
• “What’s your earliest memory of thinking about this topic?”
• “What concerns you most about the future when it comes to this issue?”

These questions invite personal stories rather than political soundbites, creating understanding even amid disagreement.

3. Practice “Yes, And” Instead of “Yes, But”

When responding to someone’s perspective, begin with points of agreement before adding your own views. This small linguistic shift acknowledges their perspective as valid while still expressing your own:

Instead of: “I hear you, but I think you’re overlooking…” Try: “I agree that safety is important, and I also wonder how we might address…”

4. Focus on Concrete Local Issues, Not Abstract National Debates

National politics often involve abstract positions detached from daily life. Local issues—road safety, green spaces, community centers, local businesses—provide tangible common ground where different perspectives can contribute to practical solutions.

The Importance of Local Action Over National Rhetoric

While national politics grab headlines, community-level engagement often produces more meaningful unity:

Local Success Story: Garland, Texas

In politically diverse Garland, Texas, residents became divided over proposed development projects. Rather than falling into partisan debates, community leaders organized “neighbor walks” where residents of different political backgrounds toured potential development sites together, sharing concerns and hopes.

The result? A community-developed compromise plan that addressed conservative concerns about business impact while incorporating progressive priorities around green space and affordable housing. The process built relationships that transcended the specific issue, creating ongoing cross-political collaborations.

Local Success Story: Portsmouth, New Hampshire

When Portsmouth faced polarization over school policies, a group of parents—spanning the political spectrum—created “Common Table” gatherings. These potluck dinners explicitly mixed people of different viewpoints at each table with trained facilitators.

Participants agreed to simple ground rules: no political labeling, personal stories welcome, curiosity over judgment. After six months, 78% of participants reported having productive ongoing relationships with people they previously avoided due to political differences.

Ways to Work Together, Even When We Disagree

1. Collaborative Problem-Solving Sessions

Invite diverse community members to tackle a specific local challenge without debating politics. Using structured problem-solving methods keeps focus on solutions rather than ideological positions.

2. Asset-Based Community Development

This approach identifies and mobilizes existing community strengths rather than focusing on deficits. By cataloging the skills, resources, and passions already present in a community, people of different viewpoints can contribute their unique assets toward common goals.

3. Skill-Sharing Networks

Create opportunities for community members to teach and learn from each other based on practical knowledge. These exchanges build respect across differences as people appreciate each other’s competence in various domains.

4. Shared Rituals and Celebrations

Community traditions—from holiday parades to cultural festivals to sports events—create shared emotional experiences that strengthen bonds regardless of political differences.

Moving Forward Together

Finding common ground doesn’t require abandoning our principles or papering over real disagreements. Instead, it means recognizing our shared humanity and common stake in our communities.

By approaching differences with curiosity rather than judgment, focusing on concrete local issues rather than abstract national debates, and creating spaces where connection precedes political discussion, we can weave a stronger community fabric—one relationship at a time.

The Path to Unity isn’t about eliminating difference—it’s about finding ways to thrive together because of our differences, not despite them.

What conversation could you have this week that bridges a divide?