Civil Discourse: Theory and Practice

Catalog description

Civil Discourse: Theory and Practice is an experiential course that develops the skills and habits required for productive disagreement in civic, professional, and public life. Students study major theories of deliberation, dialogue, negotiation, and democratic reasoning, then apply them through structured dialogues, facilitated discussions, simulations, and case-based exercises. Emphasis is placed on listening across difference, framing arguments for shared understanding, moderating contentious conversations, and negotiating principled compromises without erasing disagreement. Through repeated practice, reflection, and feedback, students learn to translate abstract concepts-such as legitimacy, reciprocity, power, and pluralism-into concrete communicative competence. The course is designed for students who want not only to understand civil discourse, but to practice it under real-world conditions of conflict, diversity, and uncertainty.