“Complex topics can be made understandable to the least informed individual if he hasn’t already formed a preconceived notion about them; however, even the simplest concepts can be obscure to the most intelligent person who is convinced of their own understanding.”

— Leo Tolstoy, The Kingdom Of God Is Within You (1894)

While it may not be necessary to reflect on this quote daily, revisiting it could significantly enhance our collective well-being. The year 2024 is pivotal, with numerous elections occurring both in the UK and in the United States. Approximately half of the globe is gearing up to participate in some variant of a ‘democratic’ election.

The term ‘democratic’ is used cautiously here, as countries such as Bangladesh, Iran, Russia, Venezuela, Mozambique, and North Korea are conducting elections that may not genuinely reflect the will of the people, lacking fairness and transparency.

Even in nations where democracy appears more stable and equitable, we are witnessing a rise in populist movements that offer grand promises but deliver little. Many of us are feeling a growing divide and an unsettling sense of doom from our central positions in the political landscape.

The Sky is Falling — Again

To function effectively, humans must maintain a mental framework that aligns with the perceived reality. A significant deviation from this shared understanding can lead to severe cognitive dissonance, necessitating intervention.

I collaborate with professionals who help those struggling with such dissonance, and it’s evident that if individuals cannot adapt their thoughts to reality, they may instead seek to reshape reality to fit their beliefs.

One might gravitate towards like-minded individuals who share similar convictions, reinforcing a collective belief system. Ultimately, this can lead to unexpected choices in life, such as relocating to distant places with peculiar customs.

Our emotional instincts often overpower rational thought; the limbic system drives us towards feelings of safety and belonging, often at the expense of truth. As social beings, humans have an inherent need to belong to a group, a trait deeply rooted in our evolutionary history.

Straying too far from one’s social group historically spelled doom for our ancestors, making the urge to connect a powerful motivator that can overshadow the pursuit of objective truth.

People form groups around diverse interests, ranging from hobbies to contentious issues. Whether these groups are harmless or harmful largely depends on their direction and influence.

The Strength of Social Bonds

Humans may hold beliefs not based on their accuracy but on how those beliefs enhance their image within their social circles.

“Individuals are either accepted or rejected based on their beliefs; thus, one role of the mind is to adopt beliefs that garner the most allies rather than those that are necessarily true.”

— Steven Pinker, Language, Cognition, and Human Nature (2013)

The pursuit of truth can often take a backseat to social acceptance. If a belief offers a tangible benefit—be it financial gain or social standing—our rational faculties may readily conform.

Many current beliefs were once met with skepticism; this gradual acceptance is akin to the process of indoctrination. Conspiracy theories often promise social acceptance and a sense of expertise, leading individuals down dark paths, especially if they lack strong critical thinking skills.

Groups may unintentionally pressure members to conform, creating a space where beliefs flourish, sometimes at the expense of rationality.

It’s easy to dismiss opposing views as foolish, but such thinking is overly simplistic.

So, how do we facilitate genuine change in beliefs?

A Gradual Process

Change often comes slowly and requires patience. You’re more likely to persuade someone who shares many of your views than someone with whom you disagree fundamentally. If you find common ground on several issues, delve into the reasons behind your differing opinions.

For example, I have a friend who staunchly supports Brexit and is a devoted monarchist. I voted to remain in the EU and would do so again based on my principles. Despite our political differences, we share interests in writing and come from similar backgrounds, allowing for respectful discussions about our views.

Over time, I’ve nudged him toward more progressive ideas, largely influenced by his disillusionment with Boris Johnson. In return, I’ve gained insights into the complexities surrounding Brexit from his upbringing in a farming community.

Understanding his perspective has prompted me to explore further and engage with diverse viewpoints.

When encouraging someone to reconsider their beliefs, you’re essentially inviting them to leave their comfort zone and venture into unfamiliar territory, which often feels daunting.

It’s remarkable that anyone alters their beliefs in today’s climate, where safety in numbers often trumps the pursuit of truth. The fear of isolation and judgment can deter individuals from embracing new perspectives.

To facilitate this process, establishing friendships is crucial. As Abraham Lincoln once said,

“I don’t like that man. I must get to know him better.”

These statements highlight the importance of moving beyond initial judgments and fostering connections that allow for open dialogue.

Friendship should be rooted in shared interests and the willingness to engage in spirited discussions, rather than merely seeking to convince others. Democracy thrives on the principle of respectful disagreement, recognizing our shared humanity.

While far from perfect, democracy remains superior to other systems.

As we approach this critical election year, it's essential to remember two key points: first, approach differing opinions with curiosity rather than hostility. Second, the concepts of kindness and kinship share a common origin; if democracy is to endure, we must internalize this connection.

For those interested in understanding the agricultural landscape of my region in the South West of England, I recommend following the insights of an experienced local farmer who can provide a richer perspective.

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