Navigating a Polarized World

This article is 262 words or a 1 minute read

If you are like me, you worry about how and why the U.S. has become increasingly polarized and what we can do about it. The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer, Navigating a Polarized World, addresses these questions head on.

The 2023 version surveyed 32,000 respondents in 28 countries about levels of trust in four sectors, namely, Business, NGOs, Government, and the Media.

A key finding, which has been trending in recent years, is that Business is the most trusted institution. For example, in the U.S., 55% of the respondents trusted Business while 42% trusted Government.

The report found three factors driving polarization: distrust in institutions, weak social fabric, and unfairness. In addition, polarization was both cause and consequence as it led to greater distrust.

What to make of this report? First, it is not just the U.S., polarization is a global phenomenon. Secondly, we need to make a national commitment to reduce polarization. But what groups will lead?

I will make a pitch for health systems to be leaders. They are businesses (most trusted in the Edelman study), and they have a standing in their communities as their mission is to serve their communities in a non-partisan way.

Health systems collaborate and coordinate with governments and other businesses. They provide reliable and trusted information (as evidenced by COVID.) They play a role in the economic wellbeing of their communities. They are typically at the top of those most respected in public opinion polls.

As Abraham Lincoln said for a different purpose but appropriate to this one: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

For comment or reaction, please write: linkedin.com/in/garybisbee or [email protected].

To get Bisbee's Brief delivered to your inbox, subscribe here.

To get My Hobbies delivered to your inbox, subscribe here.