Hi Dieter and LSP community!
I love that video too : )
The short answer to your question is YES. I suggested it at the LSP conference in Whistler, which was just a couple of days after the election. Since it was before the protests, the suggestion was more minded on getting the parties together to find common ground and bridge the gap between them – to use your metaphor. Some facilitators thought LSP could make a difference – others that the parties are too entrenched in their ways. No doubt that it would be a big challenge to take on (like any wicked problem is) – but it could also make a very meaningful contribution – hopefully leading to more perspective-taking, unity, and appreciation of our shared humanity. And down the road lead to actual change resulting from that shift in mindset. I think LSP is great for the socialization of divided groups (the dialogue and deliberation aspects) and that different tools/processes are needed afterwards to translate these changed feelings and mindsets into political action.
I suggest teaming up with experts in conflict management, political science, and seasoned facilitators with with years of experiences in leading meetings with very polarized stakeholders.
I’m looking forward to hearing yours and other facilitators’ thoughts on how LSP might (or might not) be a useful tool in this context.
Camilla
