From time to time I’ll share some links to some of my favorite reads. I know there are a lot of voices out there but these are a few I’ve found that were worth sharing and hopefully add to your own learning and growing.
Happy weekend!
Robb Willer: How to Have Better Political Conversations [Ted Talk]
“As a social psychologist, he researches how moral values — typically a source of division — can also be used to bring people together.” If you only watch one thing, this should be it. What a useful way to think about how the language we choose to discuss a topic can speak to someone’s values and beliefs. I found this video helpful and hopeful about having those tough conversations with people I disagree with.
Here’s Why You Should Call, Not Email, Your Legislators [New York Times]
“What representatives and staffers want to hear is the individual impact of your individual story,” she said. “I couldn’t listen to people’s stories for six to eight hours a day and not be profoundly impacted by them.” A helpful behind the scenes look at how staffers process the feedback we send our to our elected officials and why the personal, individual touch of a phone call can make a bigger impact than you might expect.
Here’s What Science Says About the Brains of Democrats and Republicans [Brain Decoder]
“Why do some of us identify as conservatives, and others as liberals? According to some neuroscientists, the answer lies partially in the make up of our brains.” Another fascinating look at how the way we see the world is often connected to how our brains are wired. I thought this was an interesting read and another reminder being aware of our own bias is an important part in being able to understand others.
One Answer to School Attendance: Washing Machines [The Atlantic’s CityLab]
“The first year saw over 90 percent of tracked students increase their attendance, with those most in need of the service averaging an increase of almost 2 weeks.” Loved this! An educator saw a problem, thought creatively about addressing a need and asked the community for help. Schools can’t fix everything but they are a good place to coordinate a lot of support. What a practical way to help students and their families at a relatively low cost.
Favorite Instagram from Let Me Give You Some Advice:
Hope your weekend is full of thoughtful reflection and productive conversations! If I missed a great read, will you leave a link for me in the comments?
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