Is Toxic Polarization Inevitable?

At Tideline Foundation, we believe in strengthening the ties that bind us so we can move past the disagreements that divide us. That belief was at the heart of our recent gathering, “Is Toxic Polarization Inevitable? How to Bring America Together in a Polarized Age,” held on March 6.

The event brought together leading scholars and thinkers for a full day of discussion on one of the most urgent challenges facing American civic life today.

Throughout the day, participants explored the roots of polarization, the theories that help explain it, what American history can teach us about moments of division, and whether meaningful civic renewal is still possible. The program featured speakers from institutions including Georgia State, Harvard, UC Berkeley, and UC Irvine, with conversations spanning the causes of polarization, comparative international lessons, and practical ideas for bringing Americans together again.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us and contributed to such a thoughtful and timely conversation.

Watch recordings of the conference here