Flexibility is a key component of physical fitness, and it is often overlooked in favor of strength and endurance. However, according to political psychologist and neuroscientist Leor Zmigrod, flexibility is not only important for our physical health, but also for our ideological beliefs.
In her research, Zmigrod has found that individuals who possess a more flexible mindset are more open to new ideas and less likely to hold extreme or rigid beliefs. This flexibility extends beyond just political ideologies, but also to other aspects of life such as religion, morality, and even personal relationships.
But what exactly is a flexible mindset? Zmigrod defines it as the ability to consider and accept different perspectives, even if they may challenge our own beliefs. It is the willingness to engage in civil discourse and to listen to others without immediately dismissing their ideas.
This type of flexibility is crucial in today’s society, where political polarization and echo chambers are becoming increasingly prevalent. We are bombarded with information and opinions that align with our own beliefs, making it easy to become closed-minded and resistant to change. However, Zmigrod’s research shows that having a flexible mindset can help break this cycle and promote a more open and tolerant society.
One of the key factors that contribute to a flexible mindset is cognitive complexity. This refers to the ability to hold multiple perspectives and ideas in our minds at once, without feeling overwhelmed or confused. People with high levels of cognitive complexity are better able to understand and empathize with different viewpoints, making them more open to change and less likely to hold extreme beliefs.
But can we train ourselves to be more flexible? Zmigrod believes that it is possible. Just like physical flexibility, which can be improved through regular stretching and exercise, our cognitive flexibility can also be strengthened through practice and effort.
One way to do this is by exposing ourselves to diverse perspectives and ideas. This can be done through reading books, watching documentaries, or engaging in discussions with people who hold different beliefs than our own. By actively seeking out different viewpoints, we can expand our cognitive complexity and become more open-minded.
Another important aspect of developing a flexible mindset is being open to feedback and criticism. It can be difficult to hear that our beliefs may be flawed or incomplete, but being able to accept and learn from constructive criticism is a crucial part of being flexible. It allows us to constantly reevaluate our beliefs and make necessary adjustments.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, having a flexible mindset is more important than ever. It not only promotes a more tolerant and understanding society, but it also allows us to adapt and thrive in the face of new challenges and ideas.
So how can we apply this knowledge to our daily lives? Zmigrod suggests that we start by actively seeking out diverse perspectives and engaging in civil discussions with those who hold different beliefs. We should also be open to feedback and willing to challenge our own beliefs. By doing so, we can become more flexible and open-minded individuals, contributing to a more harmonious and progressive society.
In conclusion, flexibility is not just a physical virtue, but also a crucial aspect of our ideological beliefs. By cultivating a flexible mindset, we can promote a more open and tolerant society, and also improve our own cognitive abilities. Let us strive to be more flexible in our thinking and embrace the diversity of ideas and perspectives around us. As Zmigrod says, “Flexibility is not just a virtue, it is a necessity for a healthy and thriving society.”
