As we have discussed over the past two days - civility is about more than just politeness. It is about disagreeing without disrespect, seeking common ground as a starting point for dialogue about differences, listening past one’s preconceptions, and teaching others to do the same. In our previous segments, we explored how we sometimes succeed and often fail at civility.
In our final installment – we present: Civility: An Exercise in Getting Along. We welcome two scholars for an in-depth panel discussion to discuss what the beginning steps are for improved civility in our politics, discourse and search for common ground. We are opening our phone lines for your perspective.
Let me introduce our two special guests: Austin Sarat is the William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Jurisprudence and Political Science and Chair of Political Science at Amherst College. We also welcome David Smith - the John W. Chandler Professor of English at Williams College. Welcome to you both.
Agreeing to Disagree: Civility in Public Discourse is funded in part by MASS Humanities, state-based affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
