A Reader: “Talking to Strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell

Why We Need Truth

“Talking to Strangers” by Malcolm Gladwell is the book we need right now. In the shadow of a contentious presidential election and four years in which distrust in the very institution meant to inform and protect us has come into question, we, as a society, have defaulted toward disbelieving information challenging our worldview. Gladwell rightfully argues that we cannot function in such a manner. Instead, he proposes we should assume the best of intentions until proven wrong. Personally, this has been a strategy I have been trying to employ in my own life for a few years now. It is not my default position but keeps me sane.

Truth in Civil Society

American society is not without its bad actors. There are those among us who intend to only help themselves. They cheat, steal, swindle, and feed their own egos. Knowing this, I still believe the hearts of most people I meet are good. They believe in truth and strive to do no harm. When confronted with new realities about race, sexism, ableism, gender norms, and systemic privileges, they honestly work toward bending the arch of what they can change toward truth. It is these people who make civil society possible. We should celebrate them much more than someone who is only concerned with their own wellbeing.