The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance

Have you ever held back from sharing an idea or asking a question for fear of seeming to be on the “wrong side” of a contentious issue? How often do you have open, grounded discussions on a controversial topic with someone whose views differ from your own? Have you ever felt pressured to post about an issue on social media to show that your values are aligned with those of your community… even if you didn’t have a strong feeling about that particular subject?

If you answered sometimes, rarely, and often, you’re far from alone. At this moment in history, extreme polarization may feel inevitable. Whether it’s the presidential election, the war in Gaza, reproductive health, climate science, or a host of other pressing issues, so much is at stake. How can anyone who cares at all afford to give an inch?

Yet according to Africa Brooke, it’s because we care that we must find a way to meet each other across the divides – not just politically, but in our personal relationships. If not, we will become increasingly isolated and miserable in echo chambers of our own design. In THE THIRD PERSPECTIVE: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance (Hachette Go, 9780306830426, 3/5/24, 272 pp, HC, $30), she shows us how, using the same tools she uses with her high-powered international coaching clients. Readers will learn:

• What is The Third Perspective? It’s a tool for breaking free from the limitations of echo chambers and self-imposed restrictions, tapping into a part of the mind where spaciousness, tranquility, curiosity, openness, and understanding live. It’s about communicating across divides and it’s essential if we are to solve the problems we face as a society.
• How does it work? There are three pillars: Awareness, Alignment, and Responsibility. Each section of the book includes grounding philosophy, real-world examples, and practical exercises to identify and refine your communication style and, just as important, your listening style. You’ll learn to avoid context collapse, collective sabotage (cancel culture), your own “inner mob” and other pitfalls.
• Does finding a Third Perspective mean fence-sitting or being wishy-washy? Just the opposite. Responsibility is the bedrock of The Third Perspective: it pushes you beyond simple black-and-white views, into the rich, complex greys of life. It’s about standing firm in what you believe while navigating the nuanced realities of the world.
• What if I am canceled? The push for accountability in our culture underscores a thirst for growth and learning. Sharpening your communication skills isn’t just about avoiding missteps—it’s a commitment to bettering yourself and the world around you. Ensuring that your communication is deeply aligned with your core beliefs, that you are presenting your message in the clearest way through verbal and nonverbal cues, and that your self-reputation is spotless will allow you to take full ownership of your words and their impact, without being overly attached to how they’re received.

The work is not easy, but it is liberating. And, Brooke argues, it is essential if we are to break free of the silos that keep us from finding common cause in these deeply challenging times.

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