Civil Discourse: Communicating with Courtesy
"[Democracy] is predicated on the assumption that it's possible to disagree agreeably, that it's better to laugh than cry, that one can vigorously contest the positions of one's adversary without questioning his or her personal integrity or motivation, and that parties to a debate are entitled to the presumption that their views are legitimate if not correct."
- Thomas Mann, Senior Fellow in Governmental Studies, The Brookings Institution
This summer Americans will celebrate the 230th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a document setting forth the birth of a new nation founded on the ideals of liberty, democracy, and civil discourse. As we enjoy this Fourth of July, what lessons can Phi Theta Kappa chapters learn from the principles of the founding fathers?
The fundamentals of team building and debate have not changed much since the 18th century. A diversity of ideas and opinions exists today much as it did centuries ago. Rather than getting tangled in the negative, successful teams find ways to reach their goals despite their differences. In order to discover how a group can transform potential arguments into positive discussions, one must study the principle guidelines of civil discourse.
Demonstrate mutual respect.
A solid team can be identified by the respect its members show one another. Each member may have different backgrounds, experiences and values, but they do not dwell on their differences. Rather, they seek out the values that bond them together, such as their mutual desire to advance their organization. The members also treat each other with courtesy that extends beyond the meeting room.
Engage in the positive exchange of ideas.
The team understands that the importance lies within the substance of the argument, not the volume of the voice. Since the members discuss thoughts and ideas rather than people and rumor, time is not wasted. Each member is allowed to voice their opinion without interruption because their thoughts are valued by the group."Our officers come from all different areas and have experienced different things," says Jessica Allen, chapter president at Northeast Mississippi Community College. "For creativity's sake it is important that we all feel free to share our ideas."
Agree to listen.
The group respectfully hears each point of view. They understand the importance of considering all sides of an issue and only reach a decision after everyone has had a chance to share their opinion. Realizing that what is said may differ from what is understood to have been said, the members seek clarification when they are unsure. Each recognizes that people can agree to disagree, and can disagree without being disagreeable. Team members also understand that critical thought is important to the decision making process and take no offense to helpful criticism.
Practice tact.
Team members present their ideas while taking into account others' values and opinions. Much care is taken to avoid issues which may offend. However, sometimes sensitive subjects merit discussion. When these topics arise, members continue to conduct an open and free conversation.Jill Humphrey, Vice President of Leadership at Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana - Southeast Campus adds, "It is important to understand that every person is going to react differently to what you say. If everyone is allowed to share their opinion however, they won't take offense."
Each person grants that others who disagree with them are doing so with the best of motivations. Because they assume the best in others, members are willing to think critically about their own opinions in order to give their best to the group.
Civil discourse occurs when people decide that debate itself is virtuous, when the free exchange of ideas is more important than being right. Polite, meaningful debate once formed the backbone of a great nation. As Americans remember the principles the founding fathers trusted to establish a more perfect union over 200 years ago, let us all reflect upon how we too are shaping this great Society.
Attention New Chapter Officers!
Did you know chapter officers have a special contact person at Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters? Chapter Officer
Coordinator Tom Rowden is a former Iowa Regional Officer and served as treasurer and president of
his chapter at Des Moines Area Community College.
Chapter officers may contact Tom at 601.984.3580.
