Events — February 2, 2023
Civil dialogue lecture February 7
IDEA presents Alex Heffner, "Civil Dialogue in an Uncivil Age"
The Institute for Democratic Engagement and Accountability (IDEA) at The Ohio State University is proud to bring Alex Heffner, host of the PBS series The Open Mind, to campus on Tuesday, Feb. 7. During his talk, "Civil Dialogue in an Uncivil Age," Heffner will share opportunities for meaningful, effective political engagement that does not further contribute to polarization and division. This event is presented as part of Ohio State's Civil Discourse Project.
Heffner will discuss the effects of divisiveness on discourse, campaigns and democratic governance, as well as the influence of new media, disinformation and filter bubbles that polarize US society. What are possible prescriptions to correct this cycle? How can our social footprint translate into constructive instead of destructive behavior? How can citizens, government and the press restore faith in civic life and the integrity of public policy?
Alexander is a coauthor of the bestselling A Documentary History of the United States (Penguin, 2022) and has covered American culture, politics and civic life since he was a student during the 2008 presidential campaign.
This free event will be presented from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Policy Forum (first floor) of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Walk-ins are permitted, but registration is appreciated.