They Say America Is Hopelessly Divided. What If They’re Wrong?

For the better part of a year, The Commons has explored the country’s divisions. As we’ve talked to advocates, funders, and experts working to strengthen fractured communities, one observation underscores almost every conversation.

The divisions in America are not nearly as great as we think.

That might seem odd given that very real and significant divides are manifesting themselves in politics and the culture wars daily. But it’s not just talk. Data from pollsters, social scientists, and even a neuroscientist suggest our disagreements are amplified and exaggerated by news outlets and pundits, by social media, and by politicians, all of whom stand to benefit from more viewers and readers, more clicks, and more votes. There’s common ground, the research indicates, even in the most unlikely of places.

We asked videographer Fabian Tejada to spotlight a few numbers from the research that hold particular insights for nonprofits and philanthropy. Watch his one-minute video for ideas about where Americans align on polarizing issues, the country’s priorities, and America’s values.