In his 2020 book “Why We Are Polarized,” Ezra Klein concludes that our divided society is “not a problem to solve”; rather, “it is a reality to navigate.” That is the premise behind the non-profit Braver Angels and its admirable mission statement: to rediscover our shared sense of community by understanding others’ political viewpoints, no matter how diametrically opposed to our own.

One of the organizers of Braver Angels, Vahe Keukjian, conducted a workshop at the Kingston Library’s temporary home on Crown Street last week. In a 90-minute presentation, during which he continually elicited audience involvement and commentary, he endeavored to impart the skills “Braver Angels” propose in order that we all can communicate without senseless, bitter debate.

Keukjian credited Caroline Berninger, co-chair of the Braver Angels and a member of the Hudson River Valley Alliance, Kingston Public Library Director Margie Menard and Eileen Sweeney, Hudson River Valley Alliance member, for all their work in bringing the event to fruition.

There was one consistent theme stressed throughout the evening, and crucial in understanding in order for the Braver Angels’ skill set to succeed — the goal is not to change anyone’s mind but rather to open channels of constructive dialogue.

Not surprisingly, Braver Angels’ inception dates back to 2016, shortly following the presidential election that year. Two friends, David Blankenhorn and David Lapp, both from the policy analysis/think-tank world, spoke immediately after the election results. One told the other “people are openly crying here in Manhattan” while the other observed “there’s dancing in the streets here in South Lebanon, Ohio.” They decided some kind of healing action was necessary; the flagship Braver Angels’ workshop was held soon afterward in a South Lebanon church basement.

Fast forward to 2024, when in the last week alone there have been news reports of politically charged flags flying outside a Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s homes, a Congressional cat fight that became inexcusably personal during a hearing and demonstrations on college campuses against the war in Gaza where some of the rhetoric has been blatantly antisemitic. It’s obvious the intensity of political disagreement must be tamped down.

A participant in the workshop Wednesday evening, Nancy Clark of Kingston admitted that sometimes when she hears the “other side” express their viewpoint, she says to herself, “How is it even possible to hold that position?” But she is much more of the mind that we must all come together in a more centrist way, so our governing bodies can accomplish what needs to be done for the public.

To this end, Braver Angels offers training to foster better understanding of those who represent both ends of the polar extremes that currently bookend the American political system. First, we are counseled to “listen carefully” by “turning off our inner debater.” Be ready to summarize or paraphrase what the other person is saying. If possible, look for something to agree with. And most importantly, focus on the other person’s viewpoint and underlying concerns.

Next, acknowledge the other person’s point of view. Suggestions include prefacing a response with “I hear you” and “if I understand you right.” The principle behind the “acknowledge” skill is to connect with the other person.

Then is what the workshop dubs the “pivot.” This is a signal you are about to offer your own viewpoint. It is critical at this juncture that you receive permission from the other person to continue. For example, “Would you be interested in hearing some thoughts I have on the problem?” One must receive some form of assent before continuing, be it verbal or a simple nod. Otherwise, the workshop instructs one to “back up.”

Finally, if permission has been given, you are now at the point to which you’ve been building. This is the time you can offer your own perspective. In doing so it’s vital that you avoid negative labels like “fascist” or “woke.” Rather, name your sources and maybe share a life experience or personal story behind your viewpoint. Civil dialogue will have been achieved. These days, that is no small feat.

Anyone interested in learning these skills is encouraged to visit https://braveraangels.org/media