How to Solve Societal Problems in an Age of Polarization
by Susan Neely
Building consensus is not easy. different political philosophies are not just differences on paper. They often represent deep-seated structures or beliefs that go back decades or generations. Regardless of the legitimacy of their origins, strong opposing views can lead to policy paralysis and the absence of problem-solving.
We can transcend differences by discovering shared beliefs and values that foster unity.
True consensus building cultivates an environment where strong, diverse voices can come together to shape policies that address problems plaguing society.
That environment is essential to creating forums that transcend the sound-bite culture and foster meaningful discussions. To be clear, I am not talking about “lowest-common-denominator” thinking but genuine consensus that leads to a meaningful solution.
Here are five ways that the private sector can play a leadership role in building common ground and achieving policy solutions.
Find “For” Positions
At the root of every policy debate is a societal issue — what policymakers are trying to solve. As private-sector leaders, that needs to be our starting point as well.
Whatever the challenge — financial security, preventive health, child welfare, or another issue — business leaders need to be “for” a solution that meets a societal need and provides value to consumers.
A “for” solution will not be effective unless it makes sense for the business, too. The sweet spot is a position that finds the intersection between societal, consumer, and business needs.
Asking a group of business leaders to find a “for” position may sound simplistic, but in practice, it has proven to be transforming. Starting broader than your business interest will lead to deeper, more creative thinking. A legitimate solution to a policy challenge will require a powerful advocacy position.
For example, at the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), our value proposition is financial security for all Americans through all stages of life. Financial security is an issue that touches every person across the United States. It is a powerful framework that has led to real progress in policy-making.
Form Unique Alliances
Solving society’s toughest issues is extremely difficult to achieve on your own. Strong alliances can help you advance what your business cares about.
Industry alignment is essential. Alignment outside your industry is a game-changer. Forming partnerships with organizations that share your objectives — even if business concerns differ — will only strengthen your impact.
At ACLI, we helped the passage of not one, but two monumental comprehensive retirement security laws in three years. We couldn’t have done it without a broad coalition of diverse voices.
We made meaningful connections with military, veteran, and disability groups based on our common goal of financial security for all. Our partnerships helped show policymakers the real impact of the legislation on key communities.
At the American Beverage Association, we supported First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign to reduce childhood obesity.
We partnered with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the Clinton Global Initiative to increase interest in and access to smaller portion sizes, water, and no- and lower-calorie beverages and expand calorie labeling initiatives. Our partnerships played an important role in helping children lead healthier lives.
Don’t Let Perfection Be the Enemy of Good
Any progress is helpful when you are working to solve tough issues. You will rarely find yourself in a perfect situation with people in either the public or private sector who agree on every objective and path forward.
Partnering with people who have different philosophies can tease out pathways that might not have been considered yet, remembering that there are many different paths to the same destination.
A great example of this is the U.S. House Bipartisan Working Group on Paid Leave. They are able to transcend partisan differences on solutions by leading with one motto: more paid leave for more people.
It is a simple message that allows the group to celebrate advancement wherever they can get it. They know they will not be able to solve everybody’s issues right away, but they are marching toward what matters — paid leave for all.
Measure and Build
Societal problems are not solved with any one solution. Issues evolve over time and require constant progress. Ask yourself: What gaps have been filled? What remains to be done?
At ACLI, we take retirement security seriously. Legislation passed in 2019 and 2022 were significant steps to provide Americans with better access to our retirement system.
However, we know the demographic landscape has shifted since then. Over 4.1 million Americans will turn 65 each year through 2027.
Congress can build on previous efforts and support policies that will ensure savings last through retirement. ACLI has put forward a set of new guaranteed lifetime income proposals that aim further to embed annuities in the defined contribution plan ecosystem.
Play the Long Game
Do not get discouraged if progress takes time. Issues not only evolve, but they ripen.
Preparedness is essential. You can do the work now to find your “for” position and form your alliances so you are ready when an opportunity strikes.
Bottom line, meaningful consensus building is a difficult but necessary approach to advance policy solutions.
No single sector or industry can solve all the challenges facing Americans by themselves. It is only by working together that we can build a more resilient society for all.
Susan Neely served as president and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) from 2018–2024.
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