The Power of a Simple Greeting: Fostering Connection and Combating Polarization
A growing movement suggests a surprisingly simple solution to societal polarization: a friendly greeting. Faysal, a proponent of this idea, believes a simple “hello” isn’t just polite, but a vital step towards connection. “Greetings is seeing the other. Seeing the other leads to a connection. And connection is exactly what we need,” he asserts.
This viewpoint is supported by social psychology experts. Tom Postmes, Professor at the University of Groningen, acknowledges the power of greetings as ”an expression that you see the other and a form of respect.” He explains that this strengthens relationships both between individuals and within society as a whole, appreciating the gesture. However,Postmes cautions that greetings can become divisive if there’s disagreement on how to greet – citing examples like differing cultural greetings (“good afternoon,” “Shalom,” or “As-Salaam ALEIMUM”) and potential misuse to disrupt social harmony.
Despite this potential for conflict, Postmes emphasizes the importance of politeness in maintaining a functioning society. “The great thing about politeness is that with a small gesture you maintain great things,” he states, placing greetings alongside other essential courtesies like yielding the right-of-way or thanking service workers.”Without such small gestures, a society will fall apart.”
Roos Vonk, professor of Social Psychology at Radboud University Nijmegen, identifies greetings as a fundamental human need. She points to a growing disconnect in modern, individualistic society. “People have a very need for live contact with others.But because of the individualistic society in which we now live, we lose it more and more. With our desire for individual freedom we forget the connection with others, which is not good for our well -being.”
Research supports the positive impact of even brief social interactions.Multiple studies, cited in scientias.nl,demonstrate that greeting strangers or engaging in short conversations can demonstrably improve mood,fostering a sense of solidarity for both parties involved.
Vonk advises practicality, suggesting greetings are more naturally suited to certain environments. ”In the outlying area,people are much more used to greeting each other… if you have to greet everyone in Amsterdam all the time,you will go crazy.” She recommends focusing on greetings at locations like bus stops, in stores, or with those immediatly nearby on public transport.
Faysal’s personal experiance reinforces these findings. He notes that greetings have consistently led to positive interactions and reduced social distance. He encourages others, particularly those feeling isolated or anxious, to try it: “If you have a bad mood… go outside and greet people with a smile.”
ultimately, Faysal believes the power to create a more connected society lies within individual action. “Greetings is free and accessible, everyone can do that. We live in a time when we mainly think that others… should change something about the polarization… But we often forget that we can contribute to a nicer society. So give what is free.”
