The Way We Talk believes that rebuilding trust is the key to reducing polarization in Israeli society. We provide tools for individuals and organizations to foster a healthier way to talk through disagreements—one that is responsible, constructive, and promotes cooperation between different societal sectors.
Polarization in Israeli society is more than just a political challenge—it’s a deep crisis formed by a lack of trust. Polarization is a strategic threat that is pulling our society apart and weakening our ability to function as a stable country.
What Does Polarization Look Like?
Since my husband started protesting against the government, we hardly talk about what's happening in the country. We used to watch the news together—now we watch them separately to avoid fights.
My son’s kindergarten teacher once made a political comment pointed at me. Ever since, I don’t feel comfortable around her, even when she talks about other subjects.
A colleague and I used to get along great, until he posted something offensive about my community. Now, things between us are tense, and our shared coffee breaks aren't what they used to be.
At the last family dinner, my uncle started talking about military service for the ultra-Orthodox. I didn’t want the debate to get heated, but it escalated to angry remarks and shouting. I went home with a stomach ache instead of joy.
My dad insists that we no longer share the same values. Every time I visit him, it feels like we live in two different countries.
Last Saturday, I ran into a neighbor I’ve always respected, until he asked why I choose to protest. The conversation quickly turned into a confrontation, and now I dread running into him again.
Polarization
Is a Strategic Threat
Polarization occurs when different groups in society experience fear, hatred, and distrust toward each other. When the way we talk about core disagreements is flawed, it creates a deep divide that prevents constructive dialogue between us, and promotes aggressive discourse, hostility and a culture of blame instead of responsibility.
The profound loss of trust in Israeli is pulling us apart, and is weakening our country’s ability to deal with both internal and external threats.
Our Solution:
The Way We Talk
The Way We Talk works to rebuild trust and reduce internal tensions in Israeli society, through research, consulting, and the development of practical tools and solutions for diverse audiences.
Promoting individual and shared responsibility
Every sector of society—politicians, media, employers, academia, education, and culture—must take both personal and collective responsibility for addressing social polarization.
Fostering constructive, values-driven discussions
We must create a way of talking that is respectful, meaningful, and trust-building, allowing us to bridge differences in a way that resonates across society.
Managing polarization effectively
To see real change, we must recognize the depth of the divide and treat it as a national challenge, setting clear goals, measurement criteria, and allocating resources to actively reduce it.
You Can Help Reduce Polarization
It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of deep social division. But in reality, each of us influences the level of polarization in society. We have the power—and responsibility—to change the way we talk with eachother and rebuild trust.
What You Can Do:
- Avoid spreading hostile content
- Intervene to stop divisive conversations
- Promote trust-building dialogue
The Way We Talk for Organizations
A workplace free from polarization fosters trust, collaboration, belonging, and long-term stability—even in challenging times.
How We Help Organizations:
- Developing organizational policies that reduce polarization and build trust.
- Crafting trust-based internal and external messaging.
- Training employees in respectful, constructive, and values-driven dialogue.
- Promoting understanding of Israel’s diverse perspectives.
The Way We Talk is currently growing its impact in reducing polarization and rebuilding trust in Israeli society.
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