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Our November Timely Topic is about understanding the real root of today's American divide.

 Americans come from different backgrounds and experiences (neo-diversity) and at some point, will encounter and interact with people who are not "like them". Anxiety and fear builds, creating tension.  If we wish to effectively manage this tension and prevent further division,  people with political voices must speak the truth without magnifying the anxiety and fear.

Young Americans, in particular, want to hear voices that address these situations because "...a house divided against itself cannot stand." If politicians do not speak to that issue at all, or use it to push division, young people will simply opt out of the political process. That is what is at risk, no matter political parties.

About Our Presenter
Rupert W. Nacoste, Ph.D., is an Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor of Psychology at North Carolina State University and the author of Taking On Diversity: How We Can Move From Anxiety to Respect.

Since joining the NCSU faculty in 1988, Nacoste’s research and public service efforts have focused on developing a systematic understanding of the social psychology of social change, and using that scholarly understanding to help people manage the social changes that are influencing their everyday lives. Nacoste served as the university’s first Vice Provost for Diversity and African American Affairs and developed a course, "Interpersonal Relationships and Race,” to help students understand diversity dynamics in their everyday social interactions.

He is the author of a memoir, Making Gumbo in the University.