INQ-300 | Civil Discourse

Full Title: Communicating Emphathy: In Search of Civil Discourse

Topic Description:

This course explores the intersection of two concepts: empathy and civil discourse. Some would argue empathy is a prerequisite to civil communication; others that--since the language we use creates, in large part, our reality--civil exchanges foster empathy. What are the origins of empathy? Is it something we can consciously cultivate, and if so, how? How do we communicate empathy? Is the experience of empathy necessary to engage in civil public discourse? What constitutes “civil” discourse? How can consciously engaging in civil discourse help us understand and accept differences, step outside the boundaries of tribalism? What does “civil discourse” look like in a world where calls for “civility” may cloak efforts to silence certain voices? How can we solve any problems, unless we can find ways to access and communicate our common humanity?

Counts as Global? No

Topic Approved: December 2018