The Power of This Behavioral Approach

I mentioned in my introduction last May and in my recent review (11/28) that dealing with behavior, classified into dimensions, not only helps better define problems, but by design it also precludes the name-calling and accusations that have side-tracked constructive problem solving in America.  In nearly 60 blogs describing problems in America, I have not once resorted to this tactic.

A few days ago I read this editorial in the Washington Post by Richard Cohen.  In the course of just over 750 words he describes the field of Republican candidates as a mess and calls them political pygmies, ignoramuses, dimwits, contrarians, Christian jihadists and a motely crew of opponents (to the President).  According to him Romney is a flip-flopper, a liar, a “clarifier” and an opportunist.  In addition to the clarifier and opportunist labels, he calls Gingrich a jolly demagogue, an exaggerator, a fabricator, and concocter of calumnies.  He considers them both thoroughly hollow, without moral principles.  Tell me how this general disparagement, this litany of insults, does anything to move the country forward, politically or in any other way.  No matter what side of the political spectrum, we must do better than this.

Unfortunately this type of “argument” has become more common.  Why? – Because it works.  People respond to the name-calling, public mockery and personal criticism when they are offered instead of ideas.  That is why I am adamant in my attempt (in this blog) to educate as many as possible about the behavioral model for societal problem solving.  First, it gives us something specific to work on (changing behavior).  But equally important, those who make it a habit learn to ignore these personal attacks, looking for (demanding) instead clear behavioral examples.  If we can build critical mass behind such a movement, we can force a more civil conversation about what matters, the behavioral missteps (not only by politicians but by ourselves) whose consequences continue to drive America in the wrong direction.