By Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ
In a world where technology instantly connects us, we paradoxically find ourselves more divided and disconnected than ever. The rapid spread of information has brought a troubling decline in civility, a cornerstone of healthy societal interaction.
Civility, once the bedrock of our public and private discourse, is increasingly eroded by a culture of immediate gratification, anonymity, and polarized viewpoints.
At its core, civility is about respecting others, regardless of our differences. It encompasses behaviors such as listening with an open mind, speaking kindly, and engaging in constructive dialogue.
These simple yet profound acts foster mutual understanding and cooperation, allowing diverse communities to thrive together.
In the digital age, online platforms’ immediacy and anonymity often remove the filters of face-to-face communication, creating an environment where insults, outrage, and misinformation flourish.
This issue extends beyond social media, impacting personal relationships, workplace dynamics, and public discourse.
The decline in civility is not merely a matter of poor manners but has more profound implications for the fabric of society.
When hostility and disdain replace respectful dialogue, addressing complex issues collaboratively becomes challenging.
This communication breakdown can lead to increased polarization, making it harder to find common ground or empathize with those with differing viewpoints.
One of the contributing factors to this erosion of civility is the normalization of incivility in public discourse. Political rhetoric, media sensationalism, and celebrity influence often set a precedent that filters down to everyday interactions.
When leaders and influencers engage in disparaging language and divisive tactics, it sends a message that such behavior is acceptable and effective.
Moreover, the pace of modern life leaves little room for reflection and deliberate communication. The pressure to respond quickly and the brevity of digital communication platforms can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of nuance.
This environment fosters a culture where snap judgments and knee-jerk reactions become the norm, further eroding the foundations of civil discourse.
We are witnessing the toll this decline in civility takes on individuals and communities, resulting in broken relationships, fractured congregations, and a sense of unease.
Yet, there is hope. Restoring civility requires a collective effort, starting with personal responsibility and reflection.
Firstly, reclaim active listening to understand emotions and foster genuine dialogue.
Secondly, model kindness and respect; simple courtesies like “please” and “thank you” have a profound impact.
Engage in self-reflection to be aware of biases and triggers, enabling thoughtful responses. Practice empathy to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Communities must hold themselves and leaders accountable, demanding and exemplifying respectful discourse.
Educational institutions, religious organizations, and civic groups should promote and teach the values of civility.
While the challenges are significant, the rewards of restoring civility are immense.
A society built on respect, understanding, and constructive dialogue is more harmonious, resilient, and capable of addressing the complex issues we face. Let us all strive to be agents of civility, fostering a culture where every voice is heard and valued.
By Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ
We invite our readers to submit their civil comments on this topic. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.
