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He advocates for a focus on constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of understanding different viewpoints rather than solely mocking or attacking opposing ideas. Pakman stresses that “unnecessary conflict,” such as aggressive partisanship displayed through divisive television portrayals, often hampers productive conversations.
The Challenges of Bridging Divide
Regarding contentious debates like climate change, Pakman acknowledges the difficulty in bringing polarized sides together. He notes that denying scientific consensus creates a significant barrier to reconciliation. Yet, he remains optimistic about fostering dialogue by allowing individuals to elaborate on their beliefs without immediate ridicule, which can reveal whether their reasoning is sound or shallow.