Navigating the Aggressive Culture: Warrior Kings, Royal Advisors and the IFS Model
Elaine N. Aron's 2008 groundbreaking work, The Highly Sensitive Person, offers profound insights into the dynamics of aggressive cultures. Aron states, “For better and worse, the world is increasingly under control of aggressive cultures–those that like to look outward, to expand, to compete and win. This is because when cultures come in contact, the most aggressive ones naturally tend to take over.” This historical observation is not only relevant but alarmingly evident in the current political climate in America.
In today's America, political discourse is often dominated by aggressive rhetoric and combative strategies. The polarization of ideologies has created an environment where winning seems more important than understanding. This aggressive cultural trend mirrors Aron's description and poses a significant challenge for individuals seeking peace, clarity, and compassion.
The Current Political Climate
The aggressive nature of current political interactions in America has led to a climate of fear, uncertainty, and division. From heated debates on social media to polarized news outlets, the societal focus has shifted towards confrontation rather than collaboration. The result is a nation where trust in institutions and fellow citizens is waning, and where the loudest voices often drown out the more measured, thoughtful ones. This can also lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness if you don’t align with the aggressive culture.
Accessing the 8 Cs of Self
In the midst of this tumultuous environment, the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model offers a beacon of hope and stability. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals access their core Self, characterized by eight qualities known as the 8 Cs of Self: Calmness, Curiosity, Clarity, Compassion, Confidence, Creativity, Courage, and Connectedness. Here’s how each of these qualities can help bolster you during these challenging times:
Calmness: Maintaining a state of calm allows for better decision-making and resilience. Amid political turmoil, a calm demeanor can help you navigate conversations and situations with grace.
Curiosity: Instead of reacting with hostility, approaching political differences with curiosity can open pathways to understanding and empathy. Asking questions and seeking to understand different perspectives can reduce the intensity of conflict.
Clarity: In a world filled with misinformation and sensationalism, clarity is crucial. Accessing your internal clarity helps in discerning truth from noise, making informed decisions, and articulating your stance clearly and effectively.
Compassion: Compassion for yourself and others fosters a more humane and connected society. Even in disagreements, showing compassion can bridge divides and heal wounds.
Confidence: Confidence in your values and beliefs allows you to stand firm without aggression. It empowers you to engage in political discourse without feeling threatened or defensive.
Creativity: Creative solutions are essential in overcoming political deadlocks. Accessing your creativity can lead to innovative approaches to problems and foster collaboration.
Courage: It takes courage to speak out, especially in a polarized environment. Courage enables you to advocate for justice and equality, even when it’s unpopular or risky.
Connectedness: Recognizing our interconnectedness can shift the focus from individual battles to collective well-being. This sense of connection promotes unity and cooperation.
Moving Forward
Aron goes on to say that “warrior kings” and aggressive societies only survive when they rely on “royal advisors” to help ensure everyone’s needs are considered and cared for, decisions are slow and thoughtful, and expansive energy is directed “away from aggression and domination, better to use that energy for creative inventions, exploration and protection of the planet and the powerless.”
By integrating the 8 Cs of Self into our daily lives, we can transform how we engage with the aggressive culture described by Aron. This personal transformation can ripple outwards, influencing our communities and, ultimately, our political landscape. As individuals, we hold the power to model a different way of being—one that prioritizes understanding over conflict, compassion over competition, and clarity over confusion.
In these challenging times, let us turn inward to access our Self and outward to engage with the world from a place of calmness, curiosity, and compassion. Through the lens of IFS and the wisdom of Elaine N. Aron, we can navigate the aggressive culture and contribute to a more harmonious and just society.
Ready to learn more about IFS? Contact me today for a complimentary conversation.
