The recent shootings at an Arizona “congress on your corner” meeting have lent a new sense of urgency to conversations about the state of civic discourse in the United States. When Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik cited “vitriolic rhetoric” as a factor in the shootings, he sparked debates about the metaphors, images (e.g., crosshairs), slogans, and commonplaces that comprise American political discourse. In response to these debates, the Center for Democratic Deliberation presents a “Flash Forum”–an event organized with due speed to respond to the exigencies of the moment–to give members of our campus and community an opportunity to consider the issues raised by the tragedy in Tucson.
Does language matter? Are violent metaphors partly to blame for the tragedy? Are the calls for civility misguided or on point? What traditions offer helpful approaches to the debates about language and action, about individuals and communities, about freedom and responsibility?
Leading scholars on campus from a wide range of disciplines will share their thoughts on these matters and involve you in the discussion.
Featured Presenters:
- Matthew Jordan, College of Communication
- Jeremy Engels, Department of Communication Arts and Sciences
- Ellen Dannin, Dickinson School of Law
- John P. Christman, Philosophy, Political Science, and Women’s Studies
Date: Friday, January 21
Time: 2:00-3:15 pm
Place: Foster Auditorium, Pattee-Paterno Library