Civilit y i n t h e PolitiCal arena

Moderator:Gordon Bolar, WMUK Public Radio

Panelists:Peter W. Wielhouwer, Department of Political Science, WMUStephen C. Trivers, former President of Fairfield Broadcasting Charlotte Channing, Opinion Page Editor, Kalamazoo GazetteHannah 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 com-mentators 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.

7:30 p.m.

Wednesday

March 19, 2008

105-107 Bernhard

Center,Western Michigan

University

Study of Ethicsin Society

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Information:gordon.bolar@wmich.edu