The Temptation of Polarization, the Power of Connection
The Temptation of Polarization – The Power of Connection
‘Let’s Connect Instead of Polarize’: Turning Point Netherlands’ Christmas message came straight from the heart. As obvious as the message of connection may seem, it still causes confusion for many. One slightly cynical comment was: ‘How can you stand for conservative values without polarizing!?’ Another said sharply: ‘You must never withhold uncomfortable truths just to avoid polarizing!’ Perhaps these reactions to the Christmas message are the ultimate proof that we live in a polarized society. They contain assumptions that this article aims to unpack.
What is polarizing?
Polarization is the creation and/or amplification of differences between groups, while similarities are downplayed. Polarization leads to identity formation through ‘us-versus-them’ thinking, and often results in conflict.
Polarizing is therefore NOT the same as ‘confronting someone with an uncomfortable truth.’ On the contrary, confronting someone can be a sincere, loving gesture to help them find the right path: you turn toward the other person. In polarization, you turn away from them.
Polarization is also independent of political orientation or activism. Whereas Greenpeace in the past (like XR today) engaged in polarizing ‘disruptive actions,’ they now more often choose methods aligned with administrative and legal logic. Is Greenpeace still polarizing today? Furthermore, research has repeatedly shown that people do not differ more on political content than they did in the past, but that differences appear larger due to the way debates are conducted.
Why Is There Polarization?
Unfortunately, polarization leads to short-term success. It provides moral clarity, taps into the need for identity, and thus mobilizes a base. You could even become a prime minister this way. Polarization is energetically advantageous, making it a very attractive growth model for a budding political organization — especially when the media systematically gives more attention to polarizing voices than to connection, which is seen as too vague or a moral compromise. In this way, polarization works like an addiction: a short-term thrill, long-term misery. It creates a type of society that no one wants, yet we keep converging toward it and cannot seem to escape it.
The Alternative: Connection
Connection is beautiful but complex. How do you find common ground with people whose lives are completely different from your own? What if, as a conservative Christian, you are talking with seven OnlyFans women? Preaching about decency and propriety doesn’t connect here (and they’ve probably heard that every day). What Kirk did, however, was paint a picture of his little daughter running to hug him when he comes home. A scene he cherished so deeply that it made all other grand experiences pale — even flying on Air Force One. No reproach, no offense, no moral compromise, just common ground through an inspiring image of what happiness means compared to financial gain.
And what if you are critical of climate policy, and are in conversation with those implementing it? Terms like ‘hoax’ or ‘madness’ have zero impact and simply shut the door. A connecting alternative would be to jointly analyze the cost-benefit balance of parts of the climate policy, of course without a predetermined conclusion. This shifts the conversation from emotion and gut reactions to substance and a shared factual basis. In the end, people can — and should — still disagree, but in respectful language and through a respectful process.
Connection consists of several key ingredients. Aligning with the other person’s perspective; communicating on the same wavelength using accessible language. Exploring common ground. Using the factual basis where applicable. And most importantly: having the best intentions for the other person, even if the method involves confronting them or holding up a mirror. het beste voorhebben met de ander, óók als de methode is om te confronteren of een spiegel voor te houden.
Turning Point Netherlands’ Choice
The Christmas message, ‘Let’s Connect Instead of Polarize,’ should take a lasting place in the heart of the young organization. Connection is not an end in itself, but a means that contributes to a society that is free and resilient, where mutual respect exists alongside differing opinions, where collective wisdom is utilized, and where widely valued principles such as compassion and service are central.
Turning Point Netherlands consciously chooses this path. Not because confrontation should be avoided, but because it only bears fruit when it arises from respect, common ground, and a shared pursuit of truth.
In a society that increasingly resorts to simplification and camps, we want to invest in dialogue that can handle complexity. In solid substance without harsh language. In debate that is not about winning, but about understanding and improving.
This is not an easy path. It is a slow journey. But it is the path that leads to the kind of society rooted in timeless, wise values. For Turning Point Netherlands, connection is not a slogan, but a conviction. And anyone willing to walk this path with us is welcome.
Author: Egbert Clevers
