Our future is about how we relate to one another. He s clear that these interactions must happen in public spaces, in our institutions and our political culture. That makes it essential that we reform the way we talk to each other. When that s done, it s fine to disagree. Stretch a little to discover what it takes to function in this new world.
Democracy requires it, freedom demands it.
Then stop pretending we are self-sufficient, says Branch, who brands that notion ridiculous. Accept that we feel daunted by our challenges, then engage. If we isolate ourselves from each other, Taylor Branch is certain we will recreate the kind of fearful imprisonment America experienced under segregation. And that would be a terrible betrayal of the very transformation which has inspired the rest of world, from Northern Ireland to China, one person at a time. Taylor Branch . . .