Polarization and the Healthier Church Applying Bowen Family Systems Theory to Conflict and Change in Society by Ronald W. Richardson

Polarization is endemic in North American society today. We can see its effects in nearly every political, cultural, theological, and social issue. The kinds of polarized issues that exist today are not new. They have existed for ages and some may never be resolved. What is different today is the intensity of anger, hatred, and the emotionality expressed. Society (at both governmental and the church community levels) seems unable to move ahead and deal with the problems at hand. We are stuck. The approach Ronald Richardson describes in this book for resolving them is unrelated to a specific political agenda on either the left or the right. He offers specific and practical advice for dealing with polarized situations in case studies that reflect his own personal experience.