In this episode of 'We Made This Political,' hosts Lura Forcum and Lauren Hall are joined by Daniel Yudkin, the founding director of the Beacon Project under More in Common. The conversation delves into the project's mission to combat political polarization and create a more cohesive society by exploring moral psychology and the political landscape. Daniel discusses the Hidden Tribes study, the concept of the 'Exhausted Majority,' and the importance of morally directed agency. The discussion also covers the impact of the pandemic on social interactions, the role of community service, and the importance of creating opportunities for collective effervescence. Tune in for insights into how fostering a culture of agency and community can shape a better future.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds
00:49 Guest Introduction: Daniel and the Beacon Project
02:41 Understanding Political Polarization
06:08 The Exhausted Majority and Its Potential
11:45 The Role of Agency and Responsibility
24:22 Community Engagement and Collective Effervescence
35:05 The Importance of Bottom-Up Cultural Change
36:51 Creating Spaces for Community Engagement
40:24 Impact of the Pandemic on Social Habits
43:20 The Role of Friction in a Meaningful Life
51:22 Parenting and Agency in Children
57:24 The Beacon Project and Civic Responsibility
01:01:47 Optimism Amidst Chaos
Additional Resources
Daniel and the Beacon Project on Substack
The great article on political moderates by Dr. Anthony Fowler, et. al.
