PARAGRAPH G

These sources of influence affect our neurobiology in subtle ways.

How we perceive the world is related to the patterns of people and places that we see as most

connected to us.

This process has deep evolutionary roots and gives humans what we call a shared reality.

The connection between minds and experiences enables us to share space and work together

effectively—more so than most other beings.

PARAGRAPH H

But the “whom” in the expression “whom we meet” has been changing.

We may receive more information now from online sources than from physical social experiences.

We may hear more announcements from 24-hour news outlets than from conversations with other

humans.

The ways we socially interact, especially on social media, are increasing at a time when we are more

and more divided, both socially and economically.

What may be the results of this?

PARAGRAPH I

Historically, we have maintained harmony by displaying compassion and friendship, and by

developing connectedness when we get together.

On social media, the anonymity and lack of face-to-face interaction remove a crucial part of the

equation of human sociality.

This opens the door to more frequent, and severe, displays of aggression.

Aggressive behavior—especially to those you don’t have to confront face-to-face—is easier than it’s

ever been.

And for the aggressor, there are often no consequences.

PARAGRAPH J

Humans are evolutionarily successful because our big brains have allowed us to bond and cooperate

in more complex ways than any other animal.

The capacity to observe how the world operates, to imagine how it might improve, and to turn that

vision into reality is a key aspect of our humanity.

And there lies the solution to the problem.

We are equipped with the skill set to calm aggression, and to encourage cohesion.

PARAGRAPH K

For thousands of years, people have acted collectively to punish and shame aggressive antisocial

actions such as bullying6 or abuse.

On social media—where the aggressor is remote and anonymous—even the best-intentioned

individual challenge may turn into a shouting match.

But confronting the bully with a group action—a reasoned, communal response rather than a solo

gesture—can be more effective at shutting down aggression.

Look at the public pressures placed on media corporations to monitor hate speech and fake news

online, for instance.

These are examples of how humans can collaborate to encourage what’s positive and discourage

what’s negative.

PARAGRAPH L

Yes, it seems that the world is getting more aggressive, but that’s not because we are more

aggressive at our core.

It’s because we haven’t been stepping up together to do the difficult social work our contemporary

world demands.

That means standing up against bullying, abuse, and aggressive harassment, and promoting pro-

social attitudes and actions.

In person and on social media, we must do both.