The Costly Culture of Contempt and Hate

The Costly Culture of Contempt and Hate

Hate crimes and hate groups have increased sharply since the year 2000. Although hatred is often described as an emotion, psychologists assert it’s actually a learned behavior-a behavior that damages those that hate as much as those who are the subject of that hate. In this edition of Challenge 2.0, faith leaders from Christianity, Judaism and Islam examine the costly culture of contempt in the U.S., and possible ways to break the cycle that feeds it.

Voting-Who Keeps Their Voice in 2026?

Fewer Americans vote in elections than in most other western democracies. A Pew Research study ranked U.S. voter participation 31st out of 35 western democracies. It pointed to restrictive voting laws and manipulation of voting districts. Analysts have called current efforts to eliminate, reduce or manipulate voting as effectively gagging American citizens, preventing their ability to influence their future and that of their children. In this episode of Challenge 2.0, we speak with leaders from the League of Women Voters-a group that has a long history in effectively confronting threats to voting rights.

The Attack on Iran-A “Holy Order from God?" Part 2

In last week’s edition of Challenge 2.0, two Seattle area faith leaders examined the controversial claim that ‘God approves of the U.S. attack on Iran’. This week, we continue that conversation, examining whether war and violence can be divinely inspired, and what faith requires of each of us.

The Attack on Iran-A “Holy Order from God?"

More than 200 American soldiers from all branches of service have filed formal complaints against the US military, alleging their commanders told them the Iran war was ‘part of God’s plan’. One complaint quoted an officer as saying President Trump had been anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark the return of Jesus to earth. The pushback from leading faith leaders was strong and immediate. Pope Leo of the Roman Catholic Church stated “No one can use Jesus to justify war”. In this episode of Challenge 2.0, two leading Seattle area faith leaders offer perspectives on this conflict within a conflict.

Law and Disorder - Pt. 2

In last week’s edition of Challenge 2.0, we began a conversation with two highly experienced western Washington law enforcement officials. One, a retired prosecutor-the other, a retired police chief are deeply concerned over the long-term impact of aggressive seizures of alleged illegal immigrants and refugees. We now continue that conversation