Includes bibliographical references and index.

The culture of contempt -- Can you afford to be nice? -- Love lessons for leaders -- How can I love my enemies if they are immoral? -- The power (and peril) of identity -- Tell me a story -- Is competition a problem -- Please disagree with me.

In Love Your Enemies, Arthur C. Brooks examines the growing political and social divisions in the United States and argues that a major cause of polarization is a “culture of contempt”—the tendency to view people with different beliefs not simply as wrong, but as inferior or morally defective.

Brooks argues that anger, outrage, and hostility have become powerful forces in politics, media, and social life because they attract attention and strengthen group identities. However, he contends that treating opponents with respect and goodwill is not a sign of weakness; it is a more effective way to influence people, build relationships, and create social change.

The book combines social science research, personal experiences, and examples from politics, religion, and public life to explain how individuals can disagree without dehumanizing one another. Brooks emphasizes that people do not need to abandon their principles or avoid disagreement; instead, they should replace contempt with empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to understand others.