To bridge divides, we need to understand how our mental operating systems automatically create biases, blind spots, and shortcuts — all of which stop us from seeing things clearly.

“Confirmation bias is seeing what we expect to see. Desirability bias is seeing what we want to see.” — Adam Grant

Are you feeling concerned about the growing divides occurring in our world? The first step, and one that each one of us can do, is to “depolarize within.” We do this by learning about our human “operating systems,” becoming self-aware and then making different choices about how we behave.

Polarization not only diminishes our capacity for true deliberative dialog and problem solving, but it is dividing society into contentious, conflicted parts. Left unchecked, it is becoming a fundamental threat to social harmony and ultimately the core mechanisms of democratic society.

Join facilitator Marla Estes, MA every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. and learn how to “depolarize within.” Watch fascinating and insightful videos carefully selected to explore ways to depolarize, and then engage in facilitated discussion to help integrate new perspectives.

With a background in Psychology, Marla created Building Bridgers in 2017 to address the growing social and political polarization in our country.

For over 15 years, she has been giving presentations, movie nights, book groups, workshops, and classes helping people learn to develop insights and skills in approaching difficult conversations, deepening and growing healthy, functional, and fulfilling relationships.

Marla is currently the Jackson County Coordinator for Urban Rural Action, which builds relationships through differences.

Presenter’s Website: https://www.BuildingBridgers.com

FREE ADMISSION – 1757 Ashland St., Ashland, OR. One mile west of I-5 Exit 14