“Harmony without Conformity” - Dialogical Pluralism in Political Discourse

By Dr. Thomas Selover

"Harmony without Conformity"

In his seminal philosophical reflections in the Analects, Confucius observed that: “Noble people harmonize without conformity; petty people conform without harmony" (13:23). In the US at the present juncture, when the recent election has produced a “trifecta” of political dominance in Washington, Confucius’ classic observation is worth pondering anew. The insight in this Confucian maxim suggests that genuine societal cohesion emerges not through enforced uniformity, but through a sophisticated engagement with divergent perspectives. Conformity, when pursued as an end in itself, paradoxically undermines the very agreement that it seeks to impose.

Political Praxis and Dialogical Engagement

The possibility of productive harmony without conformity can manifest tangibly in political interaction. For those who are familiar with the dynamics between Republican President Ronald Reagan and Democrat Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill, it is clear that productive governance can emerge from principled disagreement mediated by mutual respect. As Rich Gorecki describes their relationship, “They disagreed often but still worked toward the common goal of making our country better.” (See bc.edu here)

Their collaborative dynamic in the midst of fierce competition illustrates that substantive political progress is not contingent upon ideological homogeneity, but rather on a commitment to constructive dialogue.

Conversely, harmony cannot be achieved solely by aligning with those who share similar perspectives. We need only reflect on the primary election processes of both major political parties in the United States to illustrate this point vividly: candidates with broadly aligned ideologies often devolve into bitter adversaries, engaging in ridicule and contempt. Ideological proximity can paradoxically intensify antagonism. Such divisive practices diminish public confidence and provide an opportunity for external adversaries to question the effectiveness of

our democratic governance.

What is needed is what we might call a “creed of commonality” in the sense of a belief in the shared humanity and conscientiousness of one’s political opponents, and a commitment to practical action in light of that belief.

Character in action

Lest his intention be misconstrued, Confucius is adamant elsewhere in the collection of his sayings that the nobility he is talking about is one of character, not of social status or pedigree. Nor is the distinction he is drawing based on the content of a person’s views, however strongly held, but rather on the attitude toward opponents with which he or she articulates those views.

Implicit in the maxim on the possibility of harmony without conformity is a shared sense of legitimate differences in experience and worldview which impact political persuasions. It would be a misuse of the maxim to use “noble” or “petty” merely as labels or epithets in political jousting. Instead, the maxim ought to be treated as operative principle of discernment, one that is also deployed in stimulating self-reflection.

Responsibility of the Academy

In its deliberations—in person, online or in print—Professors World Peace Academy International intentionally pursues and promotes a methodological strategy of “conscientious listening” that prioritizes comprehensive understanding over rhetorical victory. The ultimate objective transcends immediate political instrumentality. By cultivating a more sophisticated and respectful discursive environment, our academic efforts can contribute to more resilient, adaptive modes of collective problem-solving. This approach represents not merely a normative ideal, but a pragmatic strategy for addressing the complex, transnational challenges which face us.

Confucian wisdom, reinterpreted through contemporary analytical frameworks, offers a compelling compass for navigating complex social and political landscapes, or seascapes. Enhanced conscientiousness on all sides—not only in Washington, but everywhere in our country and especially in the academy, will lead toward the realization of hopes and the mitigation of fears. Effective harmony emerges not through suppression of difference, but through its thoughtful, respectful negotiation.

Dr. Thomas Selover serves as President of Professors World Peace Academy International. He is a former President of SunHak Universal Peace Graduate University outside of Seoul, South Korea. He holds a doctorate in comparative religion and East Asian philosophy from Harvard University where he focused on humane learning in the Confucian tradition. Dr. Selover has taught for over 25 years at universities and colleges in Canada and the US, as well as in China and Korea. His current research is on the philosophical and theological underpinnings for a society of interdependence and mutual prosperity.