Perception gaps — misunderstandings about our fellow Americans across the political spectrum — are damaging the fabric of our country. Correcting these gaps is essential to preserving the kind of democracy that respects free speech, individual dignity, and civic responsibility.
At their core, perception gaps reflect a tendency to see those in the other party as more extreme and worse than they actually are. Too often, Americans assume their political opponents are more hostile, closed-minded, dishonest, or even supportive of political violence and rule-breaking than in reality. These caricatures drive fear and division.
The good news is that these gaps can be reduced.
Research shows that when people are presented with accurate information about each other — especially more than once — these corrections can stick. And when they do, the benefits are significant.
As Co-Founders at More Like US, we focus on motivating civil discourse, particularly on college campuses. Our approach is straightforward: when people stop viewing each other through a distorted, negative lens, they become more willing to engage. Right now, too many Americans avoid political conversations not because of apathy, but because they expect hostility. Reduce that anxiety, and you open the door to real dialogue.
This has broader implications across many areas important to a healthy democracy:
Civic engagement, social cohesion, and trust:
Strong communities depend on trust and relationships. When Americans see each other more accurately, and not through partisan stereotypes, they are more likely to engage, cooperate, and build the kind of social capital that keeps a nation strong.
Civics education and media literacy:
Good education should teach not just facts, but most importantly how to think critically. That includes recognizing confirmation bias. If students already have distorted views of others, they are more likely to accept mis- and disinformation that reinforces those views. Correcting perception gaps helps build a more discerning, informed citizenry.
Media and cultural narratives:
The stories we tell matter. Media can deepen division or help reduce it. American history shows both kinds of examples – from demeaning portrayals that fueled division, to powerful examples of leadership and character that inspired unity and respect. We should encourage portrayals that reflect the dignity and complexity of all Americans.
Fixing broken incentives in politics and media:
Today’s news, social media, and political systems too often reward outrage and division. That creates incentives to exaggerate differences and demonize opponents. When Americans recognize that most people are not as extreme as portrayed, there is greater appetite for reforms, whether that involves improving election systems, changing media incentives, or demanding more accountability from leaders.
Reducing political violence and preserving order:
Fear is a powerful driver of extreme behavior. When people believe their safety or way of life is under threat, they may justify actions they otherwise would not condone. By correcting exaggerated perceptions of threat, we can lower the temperature and reinforce a commitment to peaceful, lawful engagement.
The bottom line is simple: a free society depends on citizens who see each other accurately.
Closing perception gaps will not solve every problem, but it is a practical, evidence-based step toward a more stable, unified, and resilient America.
No matter which issues you care about most, there is a good chance this approach can help move them forward.
James Coan, Ann Schockett, and Dane Erickson are More Like US Co-Founders.
