A new poll known as the Dignity Barometer revealed significant shifts in American sentiment, according to Tim Shriver, co-founder of Dignity.US. The statistics showed that while 94% of Americans believe everyone should be treated with dignity, over 70% are dissatisfied with how people treat each other, and 74% are tired of societal divisions.
Moreover, the data highlighted that the concern over America’s polarization is on par with the worries about the cost of living. This indicates that the country’s division is seen as a pressing issue, described as its own “kitchen table crisis” by Dignity.US.
The most striking finding, as pointed out by Shriver, was how people perceive their interactions during disagreements. Despite the universal agreement on the importance of dignity, only 31% of individuals believe others treat each other with dignity when in conflict, while close to 60% feel contempt is the prevailing attitude.
Shriver emphasized the need to bridge this “dignity gap,” acknowledging the challenging task ahead but also seeing it as an opportunity for growth and change at the individual level.
Dignity.US aims to address the culture of contempt that has permeated American society in recent years. Founded in 2018 as UNITE and revamped in 2022, the organization seeks to create a movement promoting dignity and challenging divisiveness.
The Dignity Index, a key tool developed by Dignity.US, evaluates language and rhetoric on a scale from contempt to dignity. The organization collaborates with various entities, including educational institutions and faith leaders, to advocate for a culture of dignity.
Despite the prevalence of contempt and division, the poll also revealed an optimistic outlook. The majority of respondents believe in the possibility of healing America’s divisions, emphasizing the role of dignity in fostering understanding and trust.
To close the dignity gap and align actions with values, individuals must prioritize dignity over contempt. Self-awareness plays a crucial role in this process, as recognizing and addressing one’s own contemptuous behavior is essential for societal change.
Reflecting on dignity and contempt can inspire individuals to see a path towards personal growth and contribute to easing societal divisions. By emphasizing the importance of treating others with dignity, there is hope for a more respectful and united society.
