Non-Exclusive Grouping- Playing to Our Strengths in 2012

It is often the case groups will define themselves primarily by way of exclusion. It's a "There are two types of people" mentality: Americans and non-Americans, Christians and non-Christians, white and non-white, employed and unemployed.

Such mindsets -- 'binary oppositions,' they're sometimes called -- are inimical to equity, to inclusiveness, to liberty and justice for all. You're with us or against us. Keep it in the family. We take care of our own.

Yes, it's simple pragmatism to be more concerned with those closest to you. But it's an entirely different and stinkier kettle of fish to have a policy of excluding people from your little club because they don't look the same or hold a different worldview. While "us and them" thinking can serve as an effective intra-group bonding tool, its effect on the bigger picture tends toward the detrimental.

Read more at http://www.lbpost.com/life/greggory/13008

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