Contents
  1. I. Introduction (20m)
  2. II. Pillar One: Listen Differently (15m)
  3. III. Pillar Two: Go Beneath the Problem (20m)
  4. IV. Pillar Three: Embrace Complexity (25m)
  5. V. Pillar Four: Counter Confirmation Bias (15m)
  6. VI. Conclusion (15m)

Complicating the Narratives Toolkit

Strategies for Embracing Complexity

  • Acknowledge the complexity of a controversy. It makes audiences more open to learning about different viewpoints.
  • Look at the same issue in a different geographic location or time in history. When we widen the lens, it helps the audience to broaden their understanding of the problem and it revives curiosity.
  • Diversify your sources and don’t interview the “usual suspects.” Look for cross-cutting identities and voices directly affected by the issue. Think about sourcing and be very intentional about the sources you select.
  • Include interesting details such as a metaphor used by your source which can help paint a fascinating picture of the story behind a person’s beliefs.

When you don’t just focus on the facts, but also make room to explore the unique and complex sides of an issue, you tell a more accurate, fuller story.

Introduction

Q&A with John D'Anna: Incorporating Complexity