George W. Bush and Osama bin Laden Are Dancing Together (2003)

George W. Bush and Osama bin Laden Are Dancing Together: Interdependent Group Polarization in the Case of September 11

• The problem with all bivalent notions is that they collapse without their polar opposite. When we define our ‘self’ against the ‘other’, we come to need the other. And, when, in the absence of a true opposite, one is contrived, our conception of ourselves becomes as distorted as our concept of the other. Ultimately this process of defining ourselves against the ‘other’ only serves to strengthen the other’s position.

• I suggest the importance of developing common identity in overcoming the negative consequences of polarization.

• Like a dance, conflict escalation generally requires the participation of both parties.