I'm Right and You're an Idiot: The Toxic State of Public Discourse and How to Clean it Up

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Product Description Clearing the air: reclaiming public discourse in a polluted public square The most pressing environmental problem we face today is not climate change. It is pollution in the public square, where a smog of adversarial rhetoric, propaganda and polarization stifles discussion and debate, creating resistance to change and thwarting our ability to solve our collective problems. In I'm Right and You're an Idiot , author and David Suzuki Foundation chair James Hoggan grapples with this critical issue, conducting interviews with outstanding thinkers from the Himalaya to the House of Lords. Drawing on the wisdom of such notables as Thich Nhat Hanh, Noam Chomsky, and the Dalai Lama, his comprehensive analysis explores: How trust is undermined and misinformation thrives in today's public dialogue Why facts alone fail ― the manipulation of language and the silencing of dissent The importance of reframing our arguments with empathy and values to create compelling narratives and spur action. Our species' greatest survival strategy has always been foresight and the ability to leverage our intelligence to overcome adversity. For too long now this capacity has been threatened by the sorry state of our public discourse. Focusing on proven techniques to foster more powerful and effective communication, I'm Right and You're an Idiot will appeal to readers looking for both deep insights and practical advice. Review As a popularizer of science, I had long assumed the more information people have, the better their actions and decisions. But today the public has unprecedented access to information, yet clearly political, economic and social policies are distorted by other factors. Jim Hoggan's monumental study explores a wide range of thought about the babel that passes for public discourse today. Anyone concerned about how civil society can be better informed so decisions can be made for the public's long term interests must read this deeply thoughtful book. - David Suzuki, science broadcaster and environmental activist Everyone, regardless of their politics, can learn something from this book. I'm Right and You're an Idiot steps into the frenzied space of public discourse where hyperbole and polarization rule the day. With sound insights and by pulling from the wisdom of spiritual and intellectual leaders from across disciplines, Hoggan charts a compelling and much needed path forward. I'm Right and You're Wrong should be taught in every major in university...in every country of the world. -- Evangeline Lilly, author and actor In my experience in the world's crisis zones, inflammatory, toxic discourse exacerbates problems, creating conflict rather than resolving it - and probably gets you killed. So if you want to stay alive, read this incisive book. Honest engagement combined with a healthy dose of empathy is a far better route to constructive dialogue- and survival. ---Nigel Fisher, humanitarian, former UN Assistant Secretary General This book should be required reading for every person engaged in the most polarizing issues of our time - whether it be climate change, healthcare, or global conflicts. ---John Ruffolo, CEO, OMERS Ventures James Hoggan's book could not be more timely. At a moment when public discourse has seemingly deteriorated to the point of meaninglessness, the field abandoned to those who can simply yell the loudest, his call to tune down the volume, tone down the rhetoric and re-engage in civil, fact-based dialogue is more than important, it's crucial. Possibly our last hope of salvation. The fact this collection was curated by a public relations specialist is interesting; the depth and breadth of the ideas he challenges us with is impressive and ultimately inspiring. A must-read for anyone who despairs at the pollution in the public square. It doesn't have to be this way, says Hoggan. There is a way out. ----Gillian Findlay, Host, CBC News: The Fifth Estate