The Growing Divide: Political Polarization and the Loss of Civil Discourse
In recent years, politics has become less about policy and more about identity. Across the political spectrum, disagreement has hardened into division, and debate has too often turned into hostility. Political polarization —the widening gap between opposing viewpoints—has reshaped not only governments, but families, friendships, and communities. While disagreement is a natural and necessary part of democracy, the erosion of civil discourse threatens the very foundation of democratic society. What Is Political Polarization? Political polarization occurs when ideological differences intensify to the point where compromise becomes impossible and opposing sides view one another not simply as wrong, but as dangerous, immoral, or illegitimate. This creates an “us versus them” mindset where: Nuance is rejected Dialogue is replaced by slogans Loyalty to a side outweighs truth or accountability In such an environment, governance becomes gridlocked and public trust ...
