America and the Architecture of Trust
A quick glance at today’s hyperventilated political climate delivers an unmistakable message: We don’t know how to talk with each other anymore.
It turns out that the capacities for informed, open-minded conversations are cultural muscles; if not exercised, those skills atrophy. Returning them to health therefore requires careful and gradual rehabilitation.
Dear Friends,
Welcome to November: the season of food. In the coming weeks, we’ll be offering a selection of stories that merely scratch the surface of the myriad, fascinating ways that humans create cuisine. We’ll also have a few pieces on other topics, so there will be something for everyone.
But first, on the eve of yet another contentious and polarizing presidential election here in the U.S., we offer today’s featured story from our archives, which speaks to the moment. As the writer (and linguist) Michael Erard, begins: “It is tempting to see the political strife marking America these days as unprecedented, but history shows this country riven by conflict between regions, classes, races, and ideologies for centuries. One might even say that the anger and divides of the current moment are an outgrowth of what’s come before.”
Erard investigates some encouraging ideas and methods for rebuilding what he calls the “architecture of trust”—and slowly but surely, crafting a safer and more peaceful future for us all.
We hope you’ll enjoy reading “The Architecture of Trust,” written by Michael Erard, and the accompanying resource guide for having more respectful and productive political conversations. The audio version of this story, narrated by Mitch Greenberg, can be downloaded directly from our site, or wherever you like to get your podcasts.
We always welcome your thoughts and suggestions, which you can offer in a comment, by tagging us in Substack Notes, or via email. Thank you for reading and sharing our stories, for supporting our work with a paid subscription if you can, and for being such a loyal part of the Craftsmanship community.
Sincerely,
Todd Oppenheimer
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Craftsmanship Magazine
ICYMI…
Read: “Inside Khari Baoli: India’s—and Asia’s—Largest Spice Market,” written and photographed by Laura Fraser.
In the heart of Old Delhi, with roots going back to the 17th-century Moghul era, Asia's largest spice market showcases a kaleidoscope of culinary history. Whether you’re a foodie or just a curious traveler, a stroll through Khari Baoli offers a glimpse into a craft that has helped define a culture.
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Craftsmanship Magazine focuses on master artisans and innovators whose work informs our quest: to create a world built to last. In addition to our Substack offerings, you’ll find a rich archive of feature stories, podcasts, photo essays, and documentary shorts on our free website—along with community resources like our Artisans’ Directory, our guide to U.S.-based craft & folk schools, and much more.