PRODUCTIVE
DISCOURSE
In Focus
"See more clearly when you are informed"
Productive Discourse refers to a way of engaging in political or controversial discussions which centers on civility, rationality, and problem solving. With political polarization being perceived as a major issue in the United States many are struggling just to find ways to talk with each other. Below you will find key terms, statistics, and other useful tools to understand and create Productive Discourse with others. If you would like to know more, consider coming to an IYC event. Our next one can be found below in the section labeled Our Events. We host them virtually, on a wide range of topics, discussing policy, civics, and current events.
Key Terms You Should Know
Empathy:
Awareness of others' feelings in a particular situation.
Graciousness:
A generosity of spirit including benevolence, courteousness, and kindness toward others.
Provisionalism:
Engaging in dialogue with a willingness to listen to other perspectives, gain new knowledge, be challenged, and possibly even be persuaded.
Self-Awareness:
Awareness of one's own personality, attitude, behaviors, and privilege.
Magnanimity:
The ability to bear trouble calmly and to refrain from meanness and pettiness.
Moments In History
1748 - By 16 George Washington wrote out the 110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior.
1964 - The Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination and guarantees the right to equality.
2021 - Each year Thanksgiving is an ideal time to practice productive discourse.
1963 - Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech advocated for productive discourse.
2004 - Facebook introduced a new productive and not-so-productive discourse opportunity.
Statistics
The Pew Research Center reported that 45% of people have stopped talking to someone they know about politics.
68% of people believe incivility is a "major" problem, according to a study conducted in 2019 by public affairs firm Powell Tate.
As of 2020, Emojipedia noted that were were 3,521 emojis to express what you are thinking or feeling in Unicode Emoji 14.0.
In their classic 1984 study, Stafford & Daly found that within 10 minutes of a conversation people recall only 10% of what was said and the rest of their recollection reflects what was expected to be said.
113% of people misrepresent statistics when trying to make a point.
Values
Active Listening
Evidence Based Discussion
Benefit of the Doubt
Civility
Finding Common Ground
Notable Names
Henry Clay
Nelson Mandela
Oprah Winfrey
Bob Ross
Fred Rogers
Symbols
Our Events
Past
Future
Further Resources
Productive Discourse Infographic
Share what you have learned about Productive Discourse. Our Infographic has been designed to be shared easily by printing, emailing, or posting on social media. Click on the image to view or download the PDF File. (Not for commercial use.)
Celebrate & Create Event Video
Our crafting event for kids was lots of fun! Use your own materials to participate in our craft project. Watch the video to learn how to make your own Productive Discourse journal! You can also make an event out of it by hosting your own Celebrate & Create: Productive Discourse crafting party. Feel free to share this video with others! (Not for commercial use.)
Take Action
Say a sincere kind word to someone even when you are disagreeing with them!
The next time you know you might have an argument with someone, research the topic based on reliable and credible sources. This way you will be better informed before you have that conversation!
Commit to one productive discourse friendly action each week!
Show your support online, in social media, or in person the next time you have the opportunity to promote productive discourse!
Share our Productive Discourse Infographic with friends, family, and anyone and everyone you think would appreciate becoming more informed!