Question

What does Joseph Touma mean when he says "We're looking for a trickle-up effect"? Do you think Bridge the Divide will be successful in achieving this goal? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Joseph Touma is one of the founders of the organization Bridge the Divide. This organization attempts to foster discussions between young Republicans and young Democrats. The founders believe that the political environment of the United States is too divided, and that by fostering these discussions, they might be able to help diminish such divisions. He argues that they want a "trickle-up effect," which means that they hope that such a change will first happen among citizens and individuals, and that the movement will eventually reach politicians at higher levels.

I believe that Bridge the Divide will be successful in achieving this goal. I think that most politicians act in a way that they believe is desired by their constituents. If politicians encourage division between political parties, it is often because citizens also have this polarized view. If citizens demand more moderation and dialogue, then politicians would most likely act in this way in order to gain more votes.