The Common Agenda is a project based on a model of debate that is focused on identifying the language that appeals to the widest range of people. It was started with some some anticipation of productive debate and collaboration. Anyone with an interest in creating the consensus that builds coalitions around fundamental issues critical to our lives is invited to create an account, and to decide how you want to participate.
This project was conceived during the Obama years by his saying "There is more that we have in common than what divides us." I had long been interested in finding the best language to express my ideas to people who are likely to be reactive to my ideas due to their immersion in opposing ideology. I created a plan to see if I could build agreement on divisive issues by switching how I expressed them. To do this, I first needed to learn their language and understand their beliefs. That's when I realized that, even though they often made different choices than me based on different perspectives, there were still core values we had in common.
I began to practice taking the time to phrase my ideas in the language of the other person. If I can identify a person's values, and the language they use, I usually find that I have similar values but I use very different words to convey things. For example, I opposed the Iraq War while a co-worker supported it. I could have scolded about "imperialism" and "neocons", but that always triggered reactions like "commie" and "liberal". So, I listened to his language, and read a little about the ideology of right wing men in the 90s.
One day, I accidentally got my Tacoma a little over the edge of an embankment on a job site. Next thing I knew, that guy had his truck lined up and his tow strap ready. We clearly had the value of mutual aid in common. From that foundation of relatedness, I approached him one day and asked if I could learn about his support for the war. Instead of those old triggers, I first mentioned that if anyone ever came ashore or across our borders to kill or bomb us that he and I would be shoulder to shoulder. "We'll never allow anyone to violate our sovereignty", I affirmed. He smiled. Then I asked him if he thought Iraqis would feel the same way about us.
His moment of silence before answering "yes, they would" transformed both of us. In that moment he began to oppose the war. Before long we were talking about other things. All the past division had dissolved. I used his language so he could be validated, and started with clear agreement on sovereign camaraderie. In that safety, we crossed the abyss together by standing on what we had in common. I think we can use this approach to build a United Platform.
The Common Agenda is where I want to plant the seed of reconciliation in our land. I believe we can define and build on our common values. This site can be where we find the way to close the gaps that needlessly
In gratitude,
James Spitzer.