Learning to Disagree: A Conversation with John Inazu

In this episode of the Faithful Politics podcast, Josh Burtram and Will Wright interview John Inazu, the Callie D. Danforth Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion at Washington University in St. Louis. Inazu discusses his new book, Learning to Disagree, which explores the importance of understanding and navigating disagreements in a pluralistic society. The book, structured around an academic calendar, combines memoir and practical advice, aiming to help readers handle disagreements constructively in their daily lives.

Inazu emphasizes the importance of empathy, patience, and forgiveness in managing disagreements, noting that these skills are crucial in both personal and societal contexts. He argues that the best lawyers win cases by deeply understanding the opposing side, and similarly, individuals can manage conflicts better by genuinely listening and trying to understand others' perspectives. Inazu also discusses the challenges of engaging in hard conversations, particularly those involving deeply personal or moral issues like LGBTQ rights.

The discussion touches on the role of law in ensuring fairness and protecting civil liberties, highlighting how legal frameworks help manage societal disagreements without resorting to violence. Inazu also critiques the current state of political discourse, exacerbated by media partisanship, and suggests practical strategies for individuals to diversify their news sources and engage in more constructive conversations.

Finally, Inazu advises focusing on long-term relationships and investing in institutions that facilitate ongoing dialogue and understanding, stressing that meaningful change and deeper understanding require sustained effort and commitment.

Buy the book: Learning to Disagree: The Surprising Path to Navigating Differences with Empathy and Respect https://a.co/d/etmnvrg

Guest Bio:
John Inazu’s scholarship focuses on the First Amendment freedoms of speech, assembly, and religion, and related questions of legal and political theory. His books include Liberty’s Refuge: The Forgotten Freedom of