It’s important for people to feel like they belong–among their friends and families, in their communities and workplaces, and within society at large. Check out this link to read some tips for helping ourselves and others feel valued and accepted.
Category Archives: Finding Common Ground
Self-care: why looking after No 1 isn’t always best for your wellbeing
Is it better for our health to take care of our own needs or to lend a helping hand to others? Studies suggest that taking part in activities that involve caring for other people can have a positive impact on our own well-being.
Ten Ways to Fight Hate
A civil rights organization shares practical tips for creating unity in the face of conflict.
People Probably Like You More Than You Think
Do you ever worry about the impression you make on someone when you meet them for the first time? The authors of this article have conducted thorough research that suggests people often underestimate how much others like them.
AI ‘companions’ promise to combat loneliness, but history shows the dangers of one-way relationships
At a time when health professionals are warning the public about the effects of loneliness and isolation, can Artificial Intelligence help? The author of this article sees limits to technology’s ability to promote human connection and fulfillment.
The writers who reached out across the divide
How can sharing experiences reduce conflict? Read this article to find out how two writers reached out and made a connection despite deep cultural divisions.
Finding common ground with anyone: A quick and easy guide
Click here for a helpful guide on finding common ground with others.
How Hair Discrimination Affects Black Women at Work
A recent study showed that in the workplace, Black women’s hairstyles are more likely to be perceived as unprofessional. This article suggests a few ways to address hair bias and discrimination.
What happens in the brain when you learn a language?
One great way to expand your worldview is to learn a new language. It turns out that the benefits of doing so reach far beyond simply being able to communicate with more people.
An 85-year Harvard study found the No. 1 thing that makes us happy in life: It helps us ‘live longer’
Researchers found that having positive relationships with the people in our lives is a key contributing factor to our overall health and happiness. Click here to learn more.
Citizen future: Why we need a new story of self and society
The authors of this article recommend major changes in the way we think about the individual and society.
‘I’m a Friendship Expert, This Is How Many Friends You Need’
What’s the best number of friends for a person to have? Click this link to hear from a professor whose research explores this very question.
The History of the American Flag
Learn fun facts about the symbol that represents all Americans, regardless of background or politics.
Americans Are Getting Better at Cooperating With Strangers
Click this link to learn more about a recent study that suggests Americans have become more willing to cooperate with strangers over the past several decades.
Creating Common Ground in Tense, Difficult Situations
It can be hard to find common ground in a tense situation. Click here to read an interview with Chicago’s Superintendent of Police David Brown, who urges Americans involved in conflicts to really listen to each other, see past their differences, and work together in a spirit of collaboration.
How Watching a Good Deed Elevates and Inspires
You might do a good deed for someone else just because it’s the right thing to do. Research shows, though, that you’re more likely to do that good deed if you’ve recently seen someone else do a good deed. This article discusses the infectiousness of altruism.
How Conformity Can Be Good and Bad for Society
Is it best to conform to the rules and expectations of a society, or should people do what they think is best, even it it makes them stick out from the herd? Click here to dig deeper into this question.
Attacks against Asian Americans are on the rise. Here’s what you can do
In recent months, there’s been an increase in violence against Asian Americans. One way you can help is by speaking out against violence and racism. Click this link to find out other ways to help.
How do children choose a best friend?
How important is it to have a best friend? This article explains the health benefits of having close relationships with others. It also points out some interesting differences in cultural expectations related to friendship.
Searching for Common Ground in Angry Times
In this article, two authors explain how polarization in American society can be a major roadblock to productive, civil discussions about difficult issues.