I grew up in the academic culture of the 1990s. In those days, academics engaged in robust critical debate and then went out for a meal together. Rather than walk on egg shells, we disagreed without fear of retribution or the loss of friendships.
Now many people live in echo chambers in which they are exposed primarily to information that reinforces their existing beliefs. When they encounter an alternate view, they go from zero to abusive in seconds.
Have we lost the ability to disagree without reacting with personal attacks. Has frank and fearless left the building?
Our polarised world needs us to approach issues with curiosity, not judgement. We need to find solutions through evidence and dialogue.
To bring our community together, we need to find common ground. Rather than slam the door against people with whom we disagree and ascribe pejorative labels, we need engagement. Our shared humanity is a good place to start.
First published as a letter to The Age on 17 September 2025