Letter: There is hope for us to resolve issues

Much of the disruption we observe in our country and in the world is probably linked to the existence of highly polarized in-groups. An in-group is a group of people who share common characteristics such as culture, gender, race, religion or others. Within the in-group there is significant cooperation that is not extended to others who are considered as out-groups.

In-groups have probably been around since the emergence of humans and their roots are deep and probably innate. When we consider racial disruption, gender equality issues, the Shiite vs. Sunni issues in the Arab world and a multitude of other disruptions, the in-group versus out-group explanation can provide some understanding.

Fortunately, as cultures change in-groups that were formerly highly polarized may develop tolerance that is extended toward out-group individuals. Intransigent groups once involved in seemingly endless disputes may then resolve some of their issues and come to a peaceful or at least tolerable settlement.

Robert J. Boes

Ely