“Today in The Ripple Effect, let’s discuss a term that encapsulates the current societal climate. Merriam-Webster has announced ‘polarization’ as its 2024 Word of the Year, reflecting the deep divisions that have characterized recent political and social discourse. The term denotes a movement toward opposing extremes, a phenomenon evident in the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election. Data indicates that 80% of voters for one candidate viewed the opposing candidate’s views as extremely concerning, underscoring the extent of division. The selection of ‘polarization’ highlights the challenges of finding common ground in a highly fragmented society and serves as a prompt for reflection on the importance of dialogue and understanding.”

“What steps can society take to bridge the deepening divides reflected by the term ‘polarization’?”