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Originally Posted by bpcyclist
I agree completely that this is the correct approach. I do. But where I become lost is about how to apply it is with someone like, for example, Putin.
Let's say I work in the Russia section of the State Dept. and dealing with him is my basic job. In order to successfully approach him and his team in the manner you outline would require that he demonstrate willingness and ability, both, to take the perspective of others, namely, us. As you know, viewing from others' point of view is one of the key requirements in demonstrating empathy--and empathy is required to reach the kinds of breakthroughs you describe.At least I think it is.
I am no Russia expert and do not know him personally, but my impression is that Putin is probably perfectly capable of showing empathy if he so wished, but very likely entirely unwilling, where any matter involving the USA is concerned, for a whole pantheon of what he surely considers terrific reasons.
So, then, how to make progress in this environment? What would successful diplomacy using this system look like?
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These are very intriguing questions. Thank you for stretching my mind. A few thoughts...
First, if the answer were easily obtainable, someone would have landed on it by now. And... If I had the answers maybe I'd be one of those diplomats you mention. That is not my path. I'm happy being a nobody
Additionally, I do not view Putin as the one in charge of his nation's direction. For the most part, my analysis has led me to the belief there is a hidden hand behind most of the major plays and players on the world stage. Do with that what you will, but it is their audience I would need to seek in order to generate a top down shift.
Yes, empathy is a requirement and yes, I believe Putin has this skill set. I don't see anyone rising to those ranks void of it. Assuming he had the power to drive change, I think the main goal would be to prove that whatever it is I am suggesting is a superior value add approach. It should make startegic sense for the people of his nation and for himself while simultaneously honoring the world. If it can't, my argument is void of substance. However, I believe science and nature both offer ample data to prove what I am suggesting is possible.
The alternative approach is to change one's own community and and allow that to disseminate in a grass roots format. The people of a nation make the nation. When they shift in a compelling way, their leadership must redesign their strategy. If this occurs enough, and in a profound way, the value structures can be shifted permanently. A small and impermanent example of this is all of the companies rushing to prove they are 'with us' as they make their less than genuine covid commercials. Maybe I'm the only one that sees this as an 'oh crap what if Americans no longer believe they need our pointless products?' Hail Mary play??? Anyway, the point is that shifting the ground level can sometimes shift the top of the pyramid.
The honest answer is it is complex and it takes a bunch of us. I won't let that keep me from doing what I strategically see as a necessary and quick opportunity... Change myself.
I think the goal is to say to yourself 'what is in my path'? 'what can I reasonably change'? 'what do I want for myself and others'? Then go live that, be that, do that. Be authentic. Be bold. Be whatever you want and let it radiate. Honor the free will of others and pur forth your best. Deal with your fear. Integrate your broken pieces and live authentically. If It is strategically sound and it generates value, it will be seen. Sometimes in small ways. Sometimes in big ways. The amplitude does not matter as much as getting the intent and the heart right. I think
