Is Civil Discourse Possible Anymore?
Image courtesy of Southwestern University
By Marta Bystrowska
This is an independently submitted op-ed and does not reflect the views of The Tower.
Right now, we are living through a decade of political violence and polarization that hasn’t occurred within the United States since the 60s and 70s. While politics have always been centered around parties and political actors, often in opposition, this current moment has escalated to unprecedented viciousness.
I recall sitting at a bar with my friends in my hometown over the summer, chatting with a woman in her 40s about her kids. As it turned out, she asked me what I studied, and I answered, “politics.” Naturally, as it happens, she talks about how when she was younger, it wasn’t so divided, both her parents were on opposite sides of the political spectrum, and yet they found a way to make it work. This doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone. As I am sure anyone who has interacted with someone over the age of 30 has been told before, this is likely a familiar sentiment.
What is rooted in politics right now is serious. Immigration, human rights, prejudice based on race, gender, and all forms are at risk right now. It makes sense for people to turn away from discourse when so much of politics right now feels so crucial to our own individual livelihoods. To pretend that politics right now isn’t personal or serious is to be ignorant of anyone fighting systemic injustices or prejudices.
However, civil discourse doesn’t mean that politics isn’t important. If anything, civil discourse is needed even more when politics matters so deeply to all of us right now. How can we reach a solution or understanding of these serious topics if discussions are not taking place?
Some of the best conversations I have had about politics are those where we disagree, as they allow you to see the other person’s thought process, while affirming your own values and learning a new perspective. It will enable you to see the other side as a human being, which is currently lacking.
But is civil discourse even possible? Is it even possible on our own campus, which I have noticed time and again has proven incapable of handling discussions that require respect, compassion, and thoughtfulness?
I still believe it can occur. But it will require a change: a change from all sides.
First, both sides need to acknowledge that petty name-calling and labeling fuel the partisan divide. I am not claiming that I have always held myself to these standards, but individual reflection is what is needed at this moment. People need to stop hiding behind the anonymity of social media. It is easy to go on anonymous platforms and make fun of the people you dislike. This does nothing but add to the cycle of violence and hatred that is plaguing our nation.
It creates an unsafe environment for students to discuss their thoughts about topics. This affects educators just as much as it does students. How can educators teach properly if students are scared to speak their minds? This starts with the fear of being blacklisted or called out behind the anonymity that the internet provides. If these past weeks have shown us anything, slanderous and hateful comments only perpetuate the conflicts currently plaguing DC. Do we, as a community rooted in love and human dignity, want to degrade ourselves to dirty politics or stand for something higher?
However, civil discourse can never occur unless everyone holds themselves to higher standards—standards of respect and understanding.
Second, this also means the school needs to prioritize spaces to make students of all sides feel included in this conversation. Again, can this be possible if students are denied the space and ability to express their thoughts? Can this occur if students see that others who spread hateful content are not held accountable for their actions?
Can students ever feel safe without this occurring?
I don’t believe so, because it requires trust that if something were to occur, people would be held accountable. Without trust and safety, civil discourse cannot happen. Hence, this is a matter of importance to everyone and therefore requires all parties—students, teachers, and administration—to take these problems seriously.
I hope students can walk away with an understanding of their role in the solution and engage in these discussions, but it can only begin when we all hold ourselves to a higher standard. Respect and safety are of the utmost importance if we are ever to reach an environment for civil and vital dialogue.
If interested, here is a list of sources to engage in civil discourse:
- Skills for Engaging in Civil Discourse
- 10 skills to acquire and work on to have a civil conversation.
- Cultivating Civil Discourse: A Guide for Adults and Youth
- A nicely structured guide, including setting norms, implicit bias, using “I” statements, and separating facts and opinions.
- Engaging Differences – Key Principles and Best Practices
- Focuses on empathy, listening to understand, humility, and finding connection across divides.
