Assimilation is better than integration, counsels Ambassador Michael Polt of ASU's Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab. Assimilation says: "I really want you to be a part of us." Assimilation means our new friends are expected to stay and become a valued part of who we are. Besides, hating people is exhausting. In the end, it all comes down to character. (And this is why we love our friend Michael Polt.)