C ivility in the Political A rena Moderator:
Gordon Bolar, WMUK Public Radio
7:30 p.m. Wednesday March 19, 2008
Panelists:
Peter W. Wielhouwer, Department of Political Science, WMU Stephen C. Trivers, former President of Fairfield Broadcasting Charlotte Channing, Opinion Page Editor, Kalamazoo Gazette Hannah McKinney, Vice Mayor of Kalamazoo and Professor of Economics and Business, Kalamazoo College Civility seems absent from current political discussion. Leading the disintegration of rational and respectful discourse are commentators in the media on both sides. • We separate ourselves into categories, groups, and sects. • We engage in name calling and in demonizing one another with frightening regularity. In a year when American voters will make important decisions, what we really need is discourse, debate, and discussion that can shed more light than heat.
Discussion:
This panel will explore the erosion of civility in the media and in our personal lives. Panel members may also suggest ways to encourage civility in the political arena relevant to the decisions we make in the voting booth. The discussion will also touch on how our schools, universities, or public institutions can take a more active role in education or awareness about civility.
Information: gordon.bolar@wmich.edu
presented by
105-107 Bernhard Center, Western Michigan University
Center for the
Study of
Ethics
in Society