How Can DEI Survive? (And Should It?)

Perspective Shift:

DEI didn’t start as an ideology — it started as a moral correction. The origins of affirmative action were rooted in fairness and concrete injustice, not postmodern theory. It was meant as a temporary fix, not a philosophical worldview. Remembering this helps us re-center the conversation around shared moral intuitions, not tribal identity politics.
What began as an empathy movement became a moral orthodoxy. Instead of fostering inclusion, DEI in its current form often punishes dissent and enforces ideological purity. Inclusion is no longer about access to opportunity — it now requires emotional safety, agreement, and compliance with specific beliefs about power.
Real diversity includes ideological, cultural, and developmental perspectives. Current DEI often limits diversity to race, gender, and sexual orientation, excluding people with different worldviews, upbringings, or belief systems. True inclusion must make room for rural, religious, conservative, neurodivergent, and politically heterodox voices.
Postmodern critiques are valid — but incomplete without a meta-view. Green/postmodern DEI sees cultural bias everywhere, but can’t see its own interpretive frame. It confuses internal feelings with external reality, and lacks the capacity to recognize its own cultural embeddedness.
Inclusion that excludes is no longer inclusion — it’s identity absolutism. When DEI excludes dissenting voices, centers fragility over dialogue, and erases complexity in the name of moral certainty, it betrays its own purpose. Real inclusion means being strong enough to allow difference, not using inclusion as a weapon.
The most powerful DEI is built on empathy, not ideology. DEI should not be a purity test — it should be an invitation to care more deeply across difference. When rooted in empathy, cultural intelligence, and developmental wisdom, it builds anti-fragile systems capable of navigating complexity and becoming truly inclusive.

In this wide-ranging, courageous, and deeply developmental exploration, Keith Martin-Smith tackles one of the most polarizing topics in contemporary culture: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Tracing the historical evolution of DEI from its civil rights roots to its present-day institutional complexity, Keith examines how good intentions have often been overtaken by ideological rigidity, performative rituals, and empirical blind spots.

He breaks down the seven “deadly sins” of DEI — including its flattening of privilege, intolerance of dissent, and the shift from equal opportunity to enforced outcomes — while offering constructive, integral alternatives that retain the spirit of justice without sacrificing complexity, truth, or liberal values.

Drawing on developmental theory, Keith shows how DEI emerged from postmodern sensibilities but now operates largely through early-rational “expert” systems that enforce conformity rather than foster inclusion. He offers a vision of what DEI could look like if grounded in empathy, complexity, and anti-fragility — not coercion.

Whether you’re a staunch supporter of DEI, a skeptical observer, or somewhere in between, this is a conversation designed to challenge, deepen, and hopefully transform your understanding of one of today’s most important and misunderstood social projects.

What Are the Seven Deadly Sins of DEI?

Sin #1: Simplistic View of Privilege

Problem: The first sin discussed is the simplistic view of privilege, which reduces complex social dynamics to binary categories of oppressed and oppressor, often based solely on visible identity markers like race and gender. This perspective neglects the multifaceted nature of privilege, which can encompass factors like socioeconomic status, education, and geographic location, leading to an incomplete understanding of how privilege operates in society.

Solution: To address this sin, the solution proposed involves broadening the conversation around privilege to include its more nuanced aspects. This means acknowledging the complexity and intersectionality of human experiences, where privilege and disadvantage can coexist within individuals and communities. Encouraging deeper, more empathetic discussions that recognize the full spectrum of privilege can lead to more informed, effective DEI strategies that truly address inequality.

Core Polarity: Universal & Contextual (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The “Universalism vs. Contextualism” polarity embodies the essential balance between applying universal principles of justice and equity, and recognizing the unique, contextual factors that influence privilege and oppression in various environments. This polarity is pivotal in developing a nuanced understanding and approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. It challenges the oversimplified views of privilege by integrating broad, unifying standards with the specific realities of individuals and groups. By navigating this polarity effectively, we can create DEI strategies that are both universally grounded and contextually sensitive, ensuring that they are meaningful, inclusive, and effective across diverse scenarios.

Universalism emphasizes the application of consistent, universal principles to promote justice and equity. It advocates for the establishment of common human rights and standards that apply to everyone, transcending individual, cultural, or social contexts. This approach supports the creation of overarching frameworks and policies aimed at ensuring fairness and equality at a global level. However, when universalism is pursued without adequate consideration of specific contexts, it can lead to generalized strategies that may not effectively address the nuanced manifestations of privilege and oppression, potentially overlooking the unique challenges faced by different communities.

Contextualism focuses on the importance of specific circumstances, cultural backgrounds, and historical contexts in understanding and addressing privilege and oppression. It argues for DEI approaches that are tailored to the unique needs and realities of each situation, advocating for flexibility and adaptability in strategies. Contextualism enables a more precise and effective response to the diverse ways in which privilege manifests, but an overemphasis on context without a grounding in universal principles can lead to fragmented efforts and a lack of cohesive action against systemic inequalities.

Integrated Polarity

Adaptive Universality encapsulates a DEI approach that is both rooted in steadfast, universal principles of justice, equity, and human rights, and is agile enough to adapt these principles to the rich variety of human contexts. This concept transcends traditional dichotomies by recognizing that universal values need not be rigid or blind to diversity; rather, they can be dynamically interpreted and applied in ways that respect and respond to the unique cultural, social, and historical nuances of different communities. Adaptive Universality emphasizes the importance of a flexible, responsive framework for DEI efforts, one that is capable of navigating the complexities of global diversity without compromising on the fundamental ideals that unite us as a human family. It proposes a model of DEI that is innovative, inclusive, and intelligent, ensuring that the pursuit of equity is a vibrant, living process that evolves with our understanding of what it means to be just and fair in an ever-changing world.

Disintegrated Polarity

Counterproductive Fracture vividly encapsulates the negative outcomes that emerge when the balance between Universalism and Contextualism is lost in DEI efforts. This term reflects the idea that, rather than advancing towards the stated goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion, misaligned DEI strategies can inadvertently create divisions and resistance that take us further away from these objectives. “Counterproductive” highlights the unintended negative consequences of DEI initiatives that fail to integrate universal principles with contextual sensitivity—efforts that, despite their intentions, exacerbate disunity and misunderstanding. “Fracture” symbolizes the deep divisions and separations that can arise within communities and organizations, where instead of building bridges, broken polarities deepen the chasms of difference and misunderstanding. Counterproductive Fracture underscores the urgent need for a more cohesive, integrated approach to DEI—one that heals divisions through a balanced, adaptive synthesis of universal values and contextual awareness, and truly moves us closer to achieving genuine inclusivity and equity.

Tips for Harmonizing

Embrace a Learning Mindset: Cultivate an openness to learning about the diverse contexts within which DEI efforts are applied. Recognizing that universal principles can be expressed in myriad ways encourages flexibility and adaptability.
Engage with Diverse Voices: Actively seek out and listen to the perspectives of those from varied backgrounds to understand how universal principles of DEI can be meaningfully applied in different contexts.
Develop Flexible Frameworks: Create DEI strategies that are grounded in universal principles but designed to be adaptable, allowing for modifications based on contextual insights and feedback.
Balance Global and Local Perspectives: Strive to maintain a balance between global DEI goals and local needs, ensuring that initiatives are both principled and pragmatically relevant.

Tips for Integrating

Implement Contextual Assessments: Before deploying DEI initiatives, conduct thorough assessments of the specific cultural, social, and historical contexts of the communities involved. This ensures that universal principles are applied in ways that resonate locally.
Foster Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Facilitate dialogues between different groups to explore how universal DEI values can be interpreted and implemented across diverse contexts. This can help identify common ground and shared goals.
Adapt and Iterate: Use feedback loops to continually adapt DEI strategies based on the outcomes and experiences of different communities. This iterative process ensures that DEI efforts remain relevant and effective.
Embed Flexibility in Policy Design: Design DEI policies and frameworks with built-in flexibility, allowing for adjustments and refinements as new understandings and challenges emerge.
Integrating Adaptive Universality into DEI efforts promises a more nuanced, effective approach to achieving equity and inclusion, one that honors our shared humanity while respecting the rich diversity of human experience.

Sin #2: Limited View of Diversity

Problem: The second sin highlights a limited view of diversity that focuses predominantly on physical or cultural differences, overlooking the rich diversity of thought, experience, and perspective. This narrow approach can stifle the potential for true inclusivity and innovation, as it prioritizes visible diversity over the diversity of ideas and viewpoints that can drive collective growth and understanding.

Solution: Expanding the definition of diversity to include diverse thought and perspective is crucial. Encouraging environments where a multitude of voices, including those that may dissent from the majority, are heard and valued fosters a more vibrant, dynamic community. This approach not only enriches discussions but also contributes to a more inclusive culture that celebrates differences as a source of strength and creativity.

Core Polarity: Diversity & Unity (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity between Diversity and Unity encompasses the dynamic interplay between the richness and variety of human experiences, perspectives, and identities (Diversity) and the sense of oneness, commonality, and shared purpose (Unity). This polarity is crucial because it addresses the foundational aspect of human social organization: how to maintain the individual and collective identities and strengths while fostering a cohesive and cooperative society. Balancing Diversity and Unity is essential for creating inclusive communities that leverage the benefits of varied perspectives while ensuring a unified approach to common challenges. It’s about celebrating differences as a source of strength and innovation while recognizing our shared humanity to build a more empathetic and cohesive world.

Diversity represents the range of human experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, contributing to cultural richness, innovation, and empathy. It encourages adaptability by exposing individuals to different ways of thinking and living, broadening understanding, and fostering creativity. However, without careful management, emphasizing diversity alone can lead to fragmentation, conflict, and divisive identity politics, posing challenges to social integration and cohesion. These negatives arise when diversity is seen as an end in itself, rather than a means to enrich collective human experience and understanding.

Unity emphasizes commonality, shared goals, and collective strength, fostering social cohesion and a sense of belonging. It promotes a supportive community environment where individuals work together for mutual benefit and towards common objectives. However, an excessive focus on unity can pressure conformity, suppress important differences, and lead to the loss of individual and cultural identities. This overemphasis can also ignore systemic inequities, creating an illusion of equality while deeper issues remain unresolved.

Integrated Polarity

Unity in Diversity, or Unitas Multiplex, represents the synthesis of Diversity and Unity into a coherent whole where the benefits of both poles are maximized. This integrated polarity appreciates the rich tapestry of human experiences and perspectives (Diversity) within a framework of shared values and common purpose (Unity). It recognizes that true strength and cohesion come from valuing each individual’s unique contributions while working towards collective goals. Unity in Diversity fosters an environment where differences are celebrated as strengths, and common goals are pursued with a deep sense of shared humanity and mutual respect.

Disintegrated Polarity

The unintegrated polarity of Fragmentation and Homogenization manifests when there is a failure to balance Diversity and Unity effectively. Fragmentation occurs when an overemphasis on diversity without sufficient integration leads to social division, conflict, and a lack of common ground. Homogenization results from an excessive focus on unity, leading to pressure for conformity, suppression of differences, and overlooking of individual and cultural identities. This polarity highlights the negative consequences of leaning too far towards one pole without adequately incorporating the strengths of the other.

Tips for Harmonizing

Harmonizing the Diversity and Unity polarity begins with self-reflection to identify any personal biases or preferences towards one pole over the other. It’s important to ask yourself: Do I tend to value diversity at the expense of unity, or do I prioritize unity in a way that might suppress diversity? Recognizing your own tendencies is the first step towards bringing more balance to your perspective.

Self-Reflection: Engage in regular self-reflection or journaling exercises to explore your feelings and thoughts about diversity and unity. Note any discomfort or resistance you feel towards one pole and explore its roots. This understanding can guide you towards more balanced interactions with others.
Conscious Exposure: Deliberately expose yourself to environments, ideas, and communities that represent the pole you’re less aligned with. If you lean towards unity, seek out diverse experiences that challenge your perspectives. If diversity is your preference, engage in activities that emphasize shared goals and commonalities.
Active Engagement: Participate in dialogues and forums that bring together diverse viewpoints within a context of mutual respect and shared purpose. Practice active listening and empathy to understand the values and experiences that drive different perspectives.
Facilitate Balance in Groups: If you’re in a position of influence within a group or organization, implement practices that promote both poles. This could include diversity and inclusion training, as well as team-building exercises that emphasize common goals and collective identity.

Tips for Integrating

Integrating the polarity of Diversity and Unity involves creating a dynamic balance where the strengths of both poles enhance each other. This requires intentional practices and frameworks that allow for the celebration of individuality within a unified community.

Developing Integrative Frameworks: Create or advocate for frameworks in social, educational, or organizational settings that recognize and celebrate diversity while promoting a sense of belonging and common purpose. This could involve inclusive policies, multicultural curricula, or community initiatives that highlight both individual contributions and collective achievements.
Promoting Inclusive Leadership: Encourage leadership styles that are inclusive, valuing the input and perspectives of all members while steering towards shared visions and goals. Inclusive leadership training can equip leaders with the skills to manage diversity positively while fostering unity.
Cultivating Common Ground: Engage in or facilitate activities that identify and build on common ground among diverse groups. This can include community service projects aimed at shared objectives, dialogue groups that explore universal human experiences, or collaborative creative projects.
Integral Life Practice Suggestions: In the realm of Integral Life Practice, consider incorporating practices that specifically focus on transcending and including both diversity and unity. For instance, engage in meditation practices that foster an awareness of the interconnectedness of all beings, emphasizing the unity aspect. Complement this with participation in diverse community groups or cultural exchange programs that expand your understanding and appreciation of diversity.
Practices like shadow work can help identify and integrate personal biases or resistances towards either pole, leading to a more holistic perspective that values both diversity and unity.
Supplemental Practices: To support these efforts, consider supplemental practices that enhance empathy, communication, and collaboration skills. These could include nonviolent communication workshops, empathy training, or cooperative games and sports, all of which can reinforce the principles of both celebrating diversity and working towards unity.

By actively engaging in these harmonizing and integrating practices, individuals and communities can better navigate the complexities of Diversity and Unity, fostering environments that are both richly diverse and deeply unified.

Sin #3: DEI Can Be Intolerant (Ironically)

Problem: Intolerance, the third sin, refers to the tendency within some DEI efforts to suppress dissenting opinions or critique, often under the guise of promoting inclusivity. This can create environments where individuals feel unable to express differing viewpoints for fear of being labeled as bigoted or out of touch, which ironically undermines the very diversity and openness DEI initiatives aim to promote.

Solution: Creating spaces where differing opinions are welcomed and valued is essential for combating intolerance. This means fostering an atmosphere of open dialogue and mutual respect, where all members feel safe to share their perspectives. Such environments not only enhance understanding and empathy but also drive innovation and problem-solving by leveraging the full range of human experiences and insights.

Core Polarity: Inclusion & Exclusion (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity between inclusion and exclusion is a central dynamic in the development and functioning of communities at the integral stage. It navigates the delicate balance between embracing a diversity of perspectives and maintaining a certain standard of discourse grounded in expertise and developmental adequacy. This polarity is pivotal in fostering environments that are both open and discerning, encouraging rich, multifaceted dialogues while preserving the integrity and depth of the discussions.

Inclusion stands for the acceptance and integration of a wide array of perspectives, valuing the richness brought in by varied backgrounds, developmental stages, and areas of expertise. It nurtures a sense of belonging, empathy, and collaboration, allowing communities to be dynamic and adaptive. Inclusion fosters environments where diversity is seen as a strength, promoting innovation and growth through a collaborative approach. However, it holds the risk of diluting the depth and quality of discourse if not paired with discernment.

Exclusion, on the other hand, underscores the necessity for discernment, boundaries, and standards in community dynamics. It safeguards the integrity and depth of a community by ensuring that the discourse maintains a high standard, grounded in relevance and informed perspectives. While it protects the community from potential dilution of purpose, it holds the risk of fostering isolation and a lack of diverse perspectives if taken to an extreme.

Integrated Polarity

Integral non-exclusion is one way of thinking about the integrated polarity, representing a sophisticated balance between inclusion and exclusion. Non-exclusion is another way of saying “everyone is right… but some are more right than others.” It embodies a holistic approach that encourages the inclusion of as many perspectives as possible, so long as they are not overly hostile to other perspectives. This approach fosters “communities of the adequate,” where individuals share similar levels of development, expertise, or qualification, promoting a rich and deep discourse while avoiding the pitfalls of overextension.

Disintegrated Polarity

Communities of the inadequate often result when there is a failure to balance the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion effectively. These communities may either stretch too wide, losing depth and focus, or become too narrow or elitist, stifling diversity and innovation. The inadequacy comes from not effectively navigating the tension between depth and span, leading to a limited, flatland perspective that doesn’t fully leverage the potential richness of a truly integral community.

Tips for Harmonizing

Harmonizing the polarity between Inclusion and Exclusion requires a delicate balance that values diversity and discernment equally. Communities should strive to create a culture where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued, while simultaneously maintaining a standard of discourse that ensures depth and relevance. This can be achieved by implementing clear guidelines that promote respectful and informed dialogue, encouraging participants to contribute in ways that are both authentic and constructive. Facilitators or leaders within these communities can play a pivotal role by modeling this balance, actively inviting a range of voices while guiding conversations to remain focused and meaningful. Additionally, providing educational resources or training on effective communication and critical thinking can help community members engage more fruitfully. Regular community feedback sessions can be valuable to assess the ongoing dynamics of inclusion and exclusion, allowing for adjustments to be made in real-time. This harmonization fosters an environment where every member feels heard and valued, yet understands the importance of contributing in a way that maintains the community’s integrity and purpose.

Tips for Integrating

Integrating the polarity of Inclusion and Exclusion into a cohesive approach of ‘Integral non-exclusion’ involves cultivating a community ethos that simultaneously embraces diversity and upholds standards. This integration can be fostered by creating platforms and forums where diverse perspectives are encouraged, but within a framework that ensures these contributions are constructive, relevant, and aligned with the community’s developmental stage. Structured dialogue processes, such as integrative decision-making models, can be employed to ensure that discussions are both inclusive and focused. Community leaders should be trained in both inclusive practices and discernment skills, enabling them to facilitate discussions that are rich in diversity yet grounded in expertise and developmental adequacy. Emphasizing the value of both inclusion and exclusion in community communications and guidelines helps reinforce this integrated approach. Additionally, integrating reflective practices like group meditation or mindfulness exercises can enhance members’ self-awareness and empathy, supporting a more nuanced engagement with diverse perspectives. Regularly scheduled review sessions where the community evaluates its balance between inclusion and exclusion can help maintain this integral approach, ensuring that the community evolves in a way that is both open and discerning, fostering a truly integral environment.

Sin #4: Overemphasis on Oppression and Power

Problem: The fourth sin involves an overemphasis on oppression and power dynamics to the exclusion of other factors that influence human relationships and societal structures. While recognizing the reality of oppression is crucial, an exclusive focus on these elements can lead to a worldview that sees interactions primarily through the lens of victimhood and power imbalances, potentially obscuring pathways to empowerment and collaboration.

Solution: Adopting a balanced perspective that acknowledges both systemic issues and individual agency is vital. Recognizing that people have the power to affect change, both within themselves and their communities, alongside understanding systemic barriers, offers a more holistic view of social change. This approach encourages solutions that empower individuals while addressing the structural inequities that limit opportunities.

Core Polarity: Personal Agency & External Circumstance (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity of Personal Agency and External Circumstance is a crucial dynamic in understanding human behavior and social dynamics. It involves balancing the recognition of individual choices and actions (Personal Agency) with the acknowledgment of the impact of external circumstances and systemic factors (External Circumstance) on people’s lives. This polarity is essential for fostering a realistic and compassionate view of human experiences, where personal responsibility is balanced with an understanding of external influences. Effectively managing this polarity leads to empowered individuals who are aware of and can navigate systemic challenges, while a mismanagement can result in either a sense of helplessness or an unrealistic sense of control over life events.

Personal Agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own free choices. It encompasses the belief in one’s ability to influence and control one’s life outcomes through personal actions and decisions. Personal Agency is critical for self-empowerment, resilience, and personal growth, as it encourages individuals to take charge of their lives and strive for their goals. However, overemphasis on agency without acknowledging external circumstances can lead to a lack of empathy for others and an unrealistic expectation of self-sufficiency.

External Circumstance represents the understanding that an individual’s life is also shaped by external factors beyond their control, such as socio-economic conditions, cultural background, systemic inequalities, and environmental influences. This perspective emphasizes the role of systemic and circumstantial factors in affecting life outcomes. Acknowledging External Circumstance fosters empathy and social awareness, but an overemphasis can lead to a sense of victimhood and passivity, diminishing the sense of personal agency.

Integrated Polarity

‘Awakened Agency’ represents a profound integration of Personal Agency and External Circumstance, characterized by a deep awareness and mindful engagement with life’s complexities. This enlightened approach acknowledges that while we are significantly shaped by social, cultural, and psychological constructs, and that many aspects of our identity are influenced by “accidents” of birth circumstances that are out of our control, we still possess a profound capacity for personal agency. Awakened Agency is about realizing the interplay between the structures that shape our existence and our own capacity to navigate, influence, and transcend these boundaries. It involves a heightened consciousness that sees beyond the limitations imposed by circumstances of birth and societal constructs, embracing the opportunity for personal empowerment and responsibility. This perspective encourages individuals to exercise their agency in a way that is informed, reflective, and intentional, leading to actions that are not only responsive to external realities but also rooted in a profound understanding of one’s ability to effect change. ‘Awakened Agency’ thus embodies a life lived with purpose and discernment, where personal choices are made with a clear understanding of and compassion for the broader context in which they occur.

Disintegrated Polarity

‘Reactive Dissonance’ aptly describes the state where there is a lack of integration between Personal Agency and External Circumstance, resulting in a discordant and reactive approach to life. In this state, individuals may swing between feeling overwhelmed by external circumstances and adopting a disproportionate sense of personal control that ignores the impact of these external factors. It is characterized by a lack of deep awareness or acknowledgment of how societal constructs and personal choices intersect. This dissonance leads to reactions that are either passively shaped by external factors, fostering a sense of victimhood and helplessness, or overly driven by a misguided sense of agency, leading to victim-blaming and a failure to recognize systemic influences. ‘Reactive Dissonance’ thus encapsulates the fragmented and uncoordinated response to life’s challenges, where the absence of an awakened understanding of agency and circumstances leads to ineffective and often counterproductive actions and attitudes.

Tips for Harmonizing

Harmonizing the polarity between Personal Agency and External Circumstance involves cultivating an awareness of both one’s own power to effect change and the impact of external factors. Encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking can help individuals recognize where they have control and where they need to adapt to circumstances. Educational and training programs that focus on both personal development and social awareness can foster this balance. Creating supportive environments where individuals can take initiative and contribute, while also providing resources and support to address external challenges, is key. Regular discussions or forums that explore the interplay between personal agency and external circumstances can also help maintain this balance, ensuring that individuals feel empowered to act while being realistic and empathetic about external limitations.

Tips for Integrating

To integrate the polarity of Personal Agency and External Circumstance into ‘Empowered Adaptability,’ it’s important to develop environments and practices that encourage both self-efficacy and social awareness. This can be achieved through programs that combine personal development with an understanding of systemic issues. For example, leadership training that emphasizes both individual initiative and social responsibility, or community projects that require personal involvement while addressing broader social needs. Encouraging mindfulness and reflective practices can help individuals cultivate an internal sense of agency while remaining open and responsive to external realities. Integrating this polarity also involves fostering a culture of resilience, where individuals are encouraged to take proactive steps towards their goals, yet are also equipped with the tools to navigate and adapt to external challenges. This approach promotes a balanced perspective where personal actions are taken in the context of a broader understanding of societal dynamics, leading to more effective and compassionate engagement with the world. Regular community engagement and feedback mechanisms can ensure that this integrated approach is continuously refined and adapted, aligning personal empowerment with a deep understanding of and response to external circumstances.

Sin #5: Equality of Outcomes = Racist and Sexist Policies

Problem: The fifth sin critiques the goal of equality of outcomes, arguing that it can lead to policies that, while well-intentioned, inadvertently reinforce racial and sexist biases by imposing arbitrary quotas or standards that do not account for individual choice or circumstance. This approach risks valuing numerical representation over genuine equity and disregards the complexity of human aspirations and capabilities.

Solution: Shifting focus from equality of outcomes to providing equal opportunities for all is proposed as a remedy. Ensuring that every individual has access to the resources and support they need to achieve their potential creates a truly equitable environment. This approach respects individual choices and acknowledges that success can look different for each person, promoting a culture that values merit and diversity in its truest sense.

Core Polarity: Equal Opportunities & Equal Outcomes (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity between Equal Outcomes and Equal Opportunities represents a vital dynamic in societal structuring and individual development. At its core, this polarity encapsulates the tension between ensuring equitable distribution of resources and outcomes for all, and providing an equal starting point for everyone. Both aspects are crucial for a balanced and fair society. While equal outcomes focus on addressing disparities and creating fairness in results, equal opportunities emphasize impartiality and fairness in the chances given to individuals. This polarity is important because it highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of fairness and justice in social systems, acknowledging that both equal opportunities and outcomes are necessary for a truly equitable society.

Equal Opportunities is the principle that everyone should have the same starting point in terms of opportunities. This pole focuses on the fairness of processes and systems, ensuring that every individual has an equal chance to succeed based on their merits and efforts. It’s rooted in the belief that societal structures and systems should not inherently favor or discriminate against certain groups. Equality underlines the importance of a level playing field where personal abilities and efforts determine outcomes, rather than predetermined circumstances like socioeconomic background, race, or gender.

Equal Outcomes is the principle of adjusting shares so that individuals or groups who start from disparate circumstances can achieve similar results. This pole emphasizes the importance of recognizing and rectifying the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities that result from historical and systemic disparities. Equity seeks to level the playing field by providing additional support to those who have been disadvantaged, ensuring that everyone reaches the same finish line. It’s about understanding that equal treatment doesn’t always result in justice and that tailored solutions are sometimes needed to address specific societal gaps.

Integrated Polarity

The integrated polarity of Equitable Meritocracy represents a synthesis where equal opportunities and equal outcomes inform and balance each other. In this integrated state, providing equal opportunities is seen as a pathway to achieving more equitable outcomes. This approach recognizes that genuine equality of opportunity should naturally lead to more proportionally equal outcomes, using these outcomes as a barometer to assess the equality of opportunities. Equitable Meritocracy appreciates the uniqueness of individual talents and capacities, while also acknowledging and addressing systemic disparities. It strives for “more equitable inequities,” accepting that while some life and societal inequities are inevitable, they must be managed to prevent insurmountable social dysfunction.

Disintegrated Polarity

Disparate Inequity describes the breakdown of the polarity between Equal Outcomes and Equal Opportunities, leading to significant social and economic imbalances. In this state, the pursuit of equal outcomes without regard for individual merit can lead to perceived unfairness and dependency, while an overemphasis on equal opportunities may ignore systemic inequalities and reinforce social stratification. This unintegrated approach results in a society where neither true equity nor equality is achieved, leading to increased tensions, resentment, and inefficiency.

Tips for Harmonizing

Harmonizing the polarity between Equal Outcomes and Equal Opportunities involves recognizing and valuing both principles while seeking a dynamic balance. If one leans too heavily towards Equal Outcomes, it’s important to reassess the role of individual merit and effort, ensuring that opportunities are genuinely equal and merit is appropriately rewarded. Conversely, if the emphasis is excessively on Equal Opportunities, it becomes crucial to acknowledge systemic inequalities and the need for proactive measures to ensure equitable outcomes. Regularly assessing outcomes can provide insights into whether opportunities are indeed equal. Encouraging open dialogues and collaborative efforts among diverse groups can foster understanding and help find middle ground, ensuring both principles are addressed in policy and practice.

Tips for Integrating

Integrating this polarity involves developing practices that synthesize Equal Outcomes and Equal Opportunities into a cohesive approach, embodying the concept of Equitable Meritocracy. This can be achieved through:

Transcend and Include: Acknowledge that Equal Opportunities (often associated with the ‘orange’ stage) and Equal Outcomes (associated with the ‘green’ stage) are both essential components of a fair society. This approach transcends the limitations of each stage by including their strengths. It involves recognizing that a merit-based system (‘orange’) needs to be sensitive to systemic inequalities (‘green’), and that striving for equitable outcomes (‘green’) must consider individual effort and merit (‘orange’).
Holistic Policy Development: Develop policies and practices that reflect this integral understanding. This might involve creating systems that support individuals based on their unique circumstances (a ‘green’ approach) while also encouraging and rewarding personal achievement and merit (an ‘orange’ approach). It’s about finding innovative ways to ensure that opportunities are genuinely equal and that outcomes are more equitably distributed.
Integral Education and Training: Foster an integral mindset through education and training programs. This would involve teaching the importance of both equal opportunities and equal outcomes, and how they can complement each other. By educating individuals in an integral framework, there is a better chance of developing a society that values both individual achievement and collective well-being.
Engage in Integral Dialogue: Encourage dialogues and discussions that use an integral framework to explore these concepts. By bringing together people from different stages of development, a more comprehensive understanding of the issues can be achieved. This can lead to more nuanced and effective solutions that recognize the importance of both equal opportunities and equal outcomes.

Incorporating these integral practices into one’s personal and communal life supports the development of an Equitable Meritocracy. By valuing both poles and recognizing their interdependence, we can work towards a society that is fair, just, and allows for the full expression of individual and collective potential. This integral approach fits within the broader context of an Integral Life Practice by aligning individual actions and societal structures with a comprehensive understanding of human development and collective well-being. Supplementing these practices with integral theory study groups or workshops can enhance understanding and collaboration. This helps in grounding these practices not just in individual actions but also in community and societal structures, creating a robust framework for sustainable and equitable development.

Sin #6: Tribal Identities

Problem: Tribalism, identified as the sixth sin, refers to the division of society into increasingly fragmented identity groups, each vying for recognition and power. This can exacerbate societal divisions and distract from shared goals and common humanity, leading to a polarized environment where solidarity and understanding are undermined by allegiance to narrow group identities.

Solution: Embracing a more holistic view of individuals, which considers a wide range of factors beyond race and gender, is the suggested solution. Acknowledging the full complexity of human beings fosters a more respectful and accurate perception of individual identity. This approach promotes unity and understanding, transcending tribal divisions to highlight shared values and common ground.

Click here for a comprehensive overview of qualities, traits, and types that shape our identity.

Core Polarity: Personal Identity & Group Identity (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity between Personal Identity and Group Identity is a crucial aspect of understanding selfhood and social dynamics. It focuses on balancing the recognition of group-based identities, like race, gender, or culture (Group Identity), with the acknowledgment and appreciation of each individual’s unique characteristics, experiences, and narratives (Personal Identity). Managing this polarity effectively is vital for fostering inclusive communities that value diversity while respecting individuality. It addresses the need for people to identify with and find solidarity in groups, especially for marginalized communities, while also acknowledging the richness of each person’s distinct life story and personal identity. Failure to balance these aspects can lead to overgeneralization and stereotyping, or to an isolation that neglects the importance of shared experiences and collective identities.

Personal Identity refers to an individual’s self-concept and self-perception, shaped by personal experiences, choices, and characteristics. It is the unique combination of traits, values, and beliefs that defines one as an individual, distinct from others. Personal Identity is crucial for self-awareness, autonomy, and personal growth. It allows individuals to express themselves authentically and pursue their personal aspirations. However, focusing solely on Personal Identity can lead to a sense of disconnection from community and a lack of appreciation for the influence of group identities on one’s life.

Group Identity encompasses the aspects of an individual’s identity that are derived from their membership in broader groups, such as ethnicity, nationality, gender, or religion. It provides a sense of belonging, shared experience, and solidarity. Group Identity is significant for understanding societal dynamics, fostering community support, and advocating for group rights. However, overemphasis on Group Identity can lead to stereotyping, loss of individuality, and potential inter-group conflict.

Integrated Polarity

The integrated polarity of ‘Composite Identity’ represents a harmonious synthesis of Personal Identity and Group Identity, acknowledging and valuing both the individual’s unique characteristics and their connections to various groups. In this integrated state, individuals understand and embrace their personal traits and narratives, while also recognizing how their group affiliations contribute to and enrich their sense of self. ‘Composite Identity’ allows for a multifaceted self-concept, where personal autonomy and group belonging coexist without conflict. This approach fosters a deep sense of self-awareness and belonging, as individuals are able to navigate their personal journeys within the context of their cultural, social, and communal landscapes. It encourages a dynamic interaction between personal experiences and group influences, leading to a more inclusive, empathetic, and comprehensive understanding of identity. ‘Composite Identity’ thus embodies a mature and nuanced perspective on identity, recognizing that the individual and the group are not in opposition, but are instead complementary and mutually enriching aspects of human existence.

Disintegrated Polarity

The unintegrated polarity of ‘Disconnection or Overconformity’ encapsulates the negative outcomes of imbalances in Personal Identity and Group Identity. On one hand, ‘Disconnection’ arises from an excessive focus on Personal Identity, leading to isolation, a sense of alienation from the community, and a neglect of the role that group identities play in shaping personal experiences. It reflects a scenario where individual uniqueness is so prioritized that it eclipses the value of shared experiences and group affiliations. On the other hand, ‘Overconformity’ results from an overemphasis on Group Identity, leading to a loss of individuality, pressure to conform to group norms, and potential suppression of personal expressions and traits that don’t align with group expectations. This aspect signifies a state where group identities dominate, overshadowing personal nuances and reducing the individual to a mere representative of group characteristics. Together, ‘Disconnection or Overconformity’ highlights the pitfalls of failing to balance the unique aspects of one’s personal journey with the shared experiences and characteristics of their group affiliations.

Tips for Harmonizing

Harmonizing this polarity involves recognizing when there’s an overemphasis on either Personal Identity or Group Identity and then consciously incorporating practices from the other pole to achieve balance.If Overemphasizing Personal Identity: Encourage community involvement and group activities. Participate in cultural events or group discussions to understand and appreciate group dynamics and shared experiences. This helps in acknowledging the value of Group Identity alongside Personal Identity.

If Overemphasizing Group Identity: Engage in activities that focus on personal growth and self-expression, such as creative arts, individual sports, or personal development workshops. This fosters an appreciation for Personal Identity within the context of Group Identity.

Regular Self-Reflection: Regularly reflect on whether current behaviors and attitudes are leaning too heavily towards individualism or collectivism. Use reflective practices like journaling or mindfulness to assess and adjust this balance.
Diverse Interaction: Actively seek interactions with individuals from different groups and also those who prioritize individual expression. This helps in understanding and valuing both poles of the polarity.
Balanced Discussion Forums: Create forums where both individual experiences and group perspectives are shared and respected. This encourages a balanced view and appreciation of both aspects.

Tips for Integrating

Integrating these poles into a ‘Composite Identity’ involves synthesizing the positive qualities of both into a new emergent quality that appreciates the uniqueness of individuals within the context of their group affiliations.

- Developing a Multifaceted Perspective: Practice viewing oneself and others not just as group members or solely as individuals but as complex beings with a multifaceted identity. This perspective helps in appreciating the interplay and mutual enrichment of Personal and Group Identities.
- Inclusive Narratives and Storytelling: Encourage narratives and storytelling practices that weave together personal experiences with group histories. This helps in understanding how individual journeys are part of larger stories.
- Community Projects with Personal Roles: Design community projects where individuals can contribute in ways that highlight their unique skills and perspectives, yet work towards a common group goal. This illustrates the synergy of individual contributions within a collective effort.
- Cultivating Empathy and Appreciation: Develop practices, such as empathy exercises or appreciation circles, where the focus is on recognizing and valuing both the individual traits and group identities of participants.
- Policy and Decision-Making: In organizations or communities, implement policies and make decisions that consider both the needs of the individual and the group. This could involve flexible approaches that cater to diverse individual needs while aligning with the group’s collective values.
- Celebration of Composite Identity: Regularly celebrate the Composite Identity through events or acknowledgments that highlight both personal achievements and group milestones.

By integrating these practices, ‘Composite Identity’ becomes a lived experience, where the richness of individuality and the strength of group affiliation are seen not as opposing forces but as complementary aspects of a holistic identity.

Sin #7: DEI Can Be Anti-Liberal

Problem: The final sin, anti-liberalism, criticizes the tendency of some DEI initiatives to suppress free expression and enforce conformity to specific ideologies. This approach contradicts liberal values of open debate, freedom of thought, and the importance of diverse viewpoints, potentially stifling dialogue and innovation.

Solution: Promoting a culture of open debate and the free exchange of ideas, where diverse viewpoints are not only tolerated but encouraged, is vital. Recognizing that robust discussions and the challenging of assumptions are foundational to progress, this solution advocates for a return to principles that value the diversity of thought as a cornerstone of a truly inclusive society.

Click here for examples of anti-liberal DEI positions in all four quadrants.

Core Polarity: Consensus & Debate (click to expand)

Polarity Description

The polarity between Consensus and Debate reflects a fundamental dynamic in decision-making and communication processes. It’s crucial for understanding how groups can effectively navigate differences to reach decisions. Consensus focuses on finding common ground and agreement, fostering collaboration and unity. Debate emphasizes the exploration of differing viewpoints through argumentation, encouraging critical thinking and diversity of thought. Balancing this polarity is important for achieving outcomes that are both inclusive and well-considered. While Consensus builds harmony and collective buy-in, Debate stimulates innovation and robust examination of ideas. Mismanagement of this polarity can lead to either conflict avoidance and superficial agreements or to contentious environments where consensus is never reached.

Consensus is the process of decision-making that seeks agreement and alignment among all members of a group. It involves collaborative efforts to find solutions that are acceptable to everyone involved. This approach prioritizes harmony, mutual understanding, and collective buy-in, often requiring compromise and active listening. Consensus is key for fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to decisions, as it involves collective participation. However, an overemphasis on consensus can lead to avoidance of necessary conflict, suppression of diverse viewpoints, and decisions that prioritize agreement over optimal outcomes.

Debate represents a decision-making and discussion style that involves the open exchange of conflicting viewpoints, with participants advocating for different positions. It encourages critical thinking, clarity of thought, and the rigorous examination of ideas. Debate can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of issues by challenging assumptions and exposing flaws in arguments. However, when overemphasized, debate can become combative, hinder collaboration, and create divisions within groups, leading to decisions that reflect the views of the most persuasive or dominant voices rather than the best ideas.

Integrated Polarity

The integrated polarity of Consensus and Debate, termed ‘Collaborative Deliberation,’ represents a decision-making approach that combines the best of both worlds. It involves engaging in open and critical discussions where diverse viewpoints are welcomed and debated, followed by efforts to find common ground and reach a consensus that respects these diverse perspectives. Collaborative Deliberation encourages a thorough examination of ideas while maintaining a focus on collective agreement and harmony. This approach ensures that decisions are both innovative and inclusive, reflecting a deep understanding of the issues at hand and a commitment to group cohesion.

Disintegrated Polarity

The unintegrated polarity, ‘Disjointed Decision-Making,’ occurs when there is a disconnect between the processes of Debate and Consensus. This can manifest as endless debates that never reach a conclusion or superficial agreements that do not address underlying disagreements. In this state, decision-making either becomes mired in conflict without resolution or forced into premature consensus without adequately exploring diverse viewpoints. Disjointed Decision-Making leads to outcomes that are either not fully supported by the group or that lack depth and robustness, resulting in ineffective or unsustainable decisions.

Tips for Harmonizing

Recognize the Dominant Pole: Be aware of which pole (Consensus or Debate) is currently dominating the group dynamics and consciously introduce elements of the other pole to balance the discussion.
Structured Discussions: Implement structured discussion formats that allow time for both debate and consensus-building, ensuring that all viewpoints are heard and considered.
Facilitate Open Dialogue: Create an environment where members feel safe to express their views and engage in healthy debate, followed by collaborative efforts to find common ground.
Encourage Active Listening: Promote active listening techniques, where members are encouraged to truly understand differing viewpoints before advocating for their own.
Diverse Participation: Ensure that all members, especially those who are quieter or hold minority views, are encouraged and given the opportunity to contribute.
Conflict Resolution Skills: Develop and utilize conflict resolution skills to manage disagreements and guide the group towards constructive consensus.
Regular Reflection on Process: Regularly reflect on the decision-making process and seek feedback from group members on the balance between debate and consensus.

Tips for Integrating

Develop a Culture of Respect: Foster a group culture that respects both the need for diverse viewpoints and the goal of reaching a collective decision.
Combination of Techniques: Use a combination of debate techniques to explore ideas thoroughly, followed by consensus techniques to find agreements that incorporate these diverse perspectives.
Training in Collaborative Skills: Provide training for group members in skills such as effective communication, negotiation, and compromise.
Shared Goals and Values: Emphasize shared goals and values that transcend individual viewpoints, guiding the group towards decisions that reflect these commonalities.
Reflection and Adjustment: After decisions are made, reflect on the process and outcomes, and be willing to adjust if the balance between consensus and debate was not optimal.
Feedback Mechanisms: Implement feedback mechanisms that allow group members to express how they feel about the decision-making process and the extent to which it integrates debate and consensus.
Leadership Role: Leaders or facilitators should play an active role in guiding the group through both debate and consensus phases, ensuring that the integration of both leads to effective and inclusive decisions.

Context Visualization: Toward an Integral Intersectionality

This project aims to create a comprehensive analysis capturing a wide array of factors influencing human experience and identity. This initiative seeks to elevate traditional DEI approaches by introducing the concept of a “Kosmic Address,” viewing each person as a unique constellation of various traits and qualities.

The concept of a Kosmic Address posits that every individual can be understood as a specific point in a vast, multidimensional space, located by their unique combination of traits and qualities across multiple spectrums. This includes factors like physical traits, psychological development, personality types, sex and gender identities, multiple intelligences, life conditions, and more. It’s akin to a complex, dynamic coordinate system that pinpoints the exact ‘location’ of an individual in the Kosmos of human experiences.

Enhanced Intersectionality
Incorporating the notion of a Kosmic Address leads to a more powerful and inclusive understanding of intersectionality. It recognizes that individuals are not just a sum of separate attributes like race, gender, or class, but are instead complex amalgamations of multiple, interwoven dimensions. This perspective allows for a deeper appreciation of the unique pathways and experiences of individuals, acknowledging that each person’s Kosmic Address is a singular combination that cannot be fully replicated.

Purpose
This tool is designed to facilitate a richer understanding of human diversity, enabling individuals and organizations to approach DEI with a more integral, holistic perspective.

Applications in DEI
This enhanced approach transcends traditional DEI models, promoting a more inclusive, comprehensive understanding of identity. It empowers the recognition and celebration of each individual’s unique Kosmic Address within the tapestry of human diversity.

Conclusion
The project aligns with the integral vision of recognizing the multidimensionality of human beings. By adopting the concept of Kosmic Address, it contributes to a more nuanced, empathetic, and effective way of engaging with diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging a deeper respect for the vast spectrum of human experience.

In our comprehensive exploration of human identity and experience through the concept of a “Kosmic Address,” it’s vital to recognize that the myriad typological factors we’ve outlined play a significant role in shaping individual life paths and choices. This multifaceted approach helps in understanding why certain groups may be underrepresented or overrepresented in specific fields or vocations.

While recognizing the potential impact of systemic barriers and oppression, it’s equally important to consider that a range of typological factors, including physical, psychological, developmental, and cultural types, among others, significantly influence individual predispositions and choices. For instance, the underrepresentation of a particular racial group in long-distance running records or the prevalence of one gender in certain professions can often be attributed to a constellation of these typological factors, rather than solely to systemic oppression.

This nuanced understanding aids in evaluating the concept of “equal outcomes” as a measure of “equal opportunities.” Equal outcomes can indeed serve as a useful barometer for assessing the existence of equal opportunities across groups, but this assessment requires a careful consideration of the various typological factors at play. Factors such as inherent physical abilities, cultural influences, personal interests, and psychological predispositions must be factored in to gain a more accurate and holistic understanding of representation in various domains.

Such an approach acknowledges that while striving for equality of opportunity is essential, expecting uniformity in outcomes without accounting for the diversity of human typology may overlook the rich tapestry of individual differences and choices. It emphasizes that equal opportunity should lead to the empowerment of individuals to pursue paths aligned with their unique constellation of traits and preferences, rather than enforcing a uniform distribution across all fields and vocations.

In conclusion, the project’s integral vision, which recognizes the multidimensionality of human beings and their diverse “Kosmic Addresses,” contributes to a more nuanced, empathetic, and effective way of engaging with diversity, equity, and inclusion. This approach encourages a deeper respect for the vast spectrum of human experience, understanding that diversity in outcomes is a natural reflection of the complex interplay of various typological factors shaping each individual’s unique journey.

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Key Questions

Here are some questions you can contemplate while listening to this discussion. We suggest you take some time to use these as journaling prompts.

What does “inclusion” mean to me — and who do I quietly exclude while using that word? Am I open to people who challenge my worldview, or only to those who match my identity and values?
Do I confuse subjective harm with objective injustice? Can I tell the difference between feeling excluded and being systematically excluded? How do I verify that difference?
Where do I benefit from the very systems I critique? Can I name the privileges—economic, educational, social, spiritual—that give me the platform to critique privilege in others?
Can I love more widely without losing my discernment? What happens when I try to include those I feel are regressive, rigid, or even oppressive? Can I expand my care without collapsing my clarity?
Where do I flatten complexity in order to feel righteous? Do I reduce people to their race, gender, class, or beliefs—just to make the world easier to explain or to judge?
Am I more focused on being seen as good — or doing what is truly helpful? How often do I perform allyship, inclusion, or empathy for social acceptance rather than grounded, inner conviction?
Have I ever used the language of inclusion to exclude someone I disagreed with? What would it mean to actually include them? What discomfort does that bring up in me?

About Keith Martin-Smith

Keith Martin-Smith is an award-winning author, writing coach, and Zen priest. He is passionate about human connection, creativity, and evolution. His books include "The Mysterious Divination of Tea Leaves", "A Heart Blown Open", and "The Heart of Zen". His most recent book is his first novel, "Only Everything", a novel that explores the promise and the pain of following an artist's path.