How can individuals cultivate a sense of empathy towards others who hold differing beliefs or opinions in order to bridge divides and promote understanding in today's polarized society?

Individuals can cultivate empathy towards others with differing beliefs by actively listening to their perspectives without judgment, seeking to understand their experiences and motivations. Engaging in respectful dialogue and asking open-ended questions can help foster empathy and bridge divides. It is important to recognize and validate the emotions of others, even if their beliefs differ from our own, in order to promote understanding and build connections in a polarized society.