Publisher's Synopsis
Our beliefs, values, and opinions are based on our context and worldview. In There's No Such Thing as Right and Wrong, we explore the moral and ethical implications of our perceptions, exploring a series of topics that tend to have moral "camps," and are the source of perpetual dyadic conflict, including abortion, gun control, drug use and legalization, federal and state-level responses to COVID-19, LGBTQIA+ rights, killing others, the media, and more. In the end, we will discover that none of these topics truly have a universal moral hard line, that hard lines are moveable over time, and what this means for society if everything we believe to be true is only true for ourselves, or that collective "truth" may only be true for a fleeting moment in history.
"Conflict in America is as old as our democracy, but our country is intended to be United. Matthew teaches in this book that conflict allows us a starting point on the road to collaboration. When we let go of our blind allegiance to parties or causes for a moment and actually listen to others, much can be accomplished together. This book comes at the right time in history and should be read by all in the name of logical decency."
Chris Holman
Past Chair, National Small Business Association
"Having the opportunity to know Matthew first as friends, and then to be personally coached by him through this content, has provided an unparalleled view of what it means to see these principles in practice. From an HR context, all members of an organization, entry level to C-level, would benefit from this approach to handling conflict and respecting diverse perspectives."
April Vassau
Human Resource Business Partner, Deloitte
"I am impressed how Matthew courageously wades into discussions of highly sensitive and polarizing issues, urging a thought-provoking process that provides a pathway to enhanced mutual understanding, and ideally respectful outcomes. He urges a return to civility in this time of deeply divided camps, laying out a framework for a thoughtful exchange of opposing ideas. This book can also act as a terrific conversation-starter for leadership teams as they seek to evolve from a state of conflict on divisive issues to one of collaboration."
Phil Hickey
Past Chair, National Restaurant Association
"This book is very timely as a tool and discussion platform on how we can reduce the terrible divisiveness of today's political world. As politicians, we must work hard to understand the opinions of others, particularly those who don't agree with us. Often, my goal was to find common ground items that we could agree on and actually do, as Matthew advocates here. By seeking a track record of successful collaboration, our country can resolve remaining issues. Relentless Positive Action was my operating philosophy to bring Michiganders closer together, and this book's similar philosophy will bring Americans closer together."
Governor Rick Snyder
Michigan's 48th Governor, 2011-2019
"This book is about conflict, but it's really about hope - Hope that we can create the world we want, rather than tolerate the division that currently reigns supreme. We deserve better. Together, we can influence change. You already have this power. I'll show you how."
Matthew D. Anderson
Author, There's No Such Thing as Right and Wrong
