Why it's so hard to listen when you disagree | Emily Kasriel

Listening does not equate to agreement, yet the fear of being "contaminated" by opposing views often prevents meaningful connection. This psychological barrier causes people to avoid difficult conversations, ultimately deepening societal polarization. By practicing "deep listening"—a method involving self-reflection, managing one’s own triggers, and creating space for others—individuals can engage across ideological divides without compromising their own values. For instance, training programs in Latvia and personal experiences in Lebanon demonstrate that when people feel truly heard, they often soften their rigid beliefs. Developing a "third ear" to tune into unspoken needs allows for genuine human connection, even when fundamental disagreements persist. Separating the act of listening from the requirement of compliance fosters empathy and preserves the dignity of others, providing a necessary pathway to bridge the fault lines currently tearing communities and nations apart.