Democracy and Public Argument: Where We Are and Where We Are Headed

Argument in the public sphere is essential to democratic discourse. But argument comes in many forms, some of which may enhance the quality of democratic discourse, while others undermine it. On March 23, 2011 at George Washington University's Jack Morton Auditorium, an expert panel discussed current dynamics and trends in public argument and drew lessons for the future.

Bob Herbert, Columnist for the New York Times and School of Media and Public Affairs Professional Fellow discuss Race and Public Argument in America.
Prof. Albert May, former Government and Public Affairs Editor of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Associate Professor of Media and Public Affairs, discussed The Role of Journalism and Media Coverage in Public Argument.
Bud Ward, Director of the Yale Forum on Climate Change and the Media, discussed Public Arguments about Science and Technology. Mindy Finn, Founding partner of Engage communications and former director of "e"Strategy for the Mitt Romney for President campaign, discussed The Role of New Media in Public Argument. Moderator: Derek Malone-France, Interim Executive Director, University Writing Program.

Funded with generous support from the Freemasons of Washington, DC, Justice-Columbia Lodge #3. Co-sponsored by the University Writing Center and the School of Media and Public Affairs.

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• democracy
• argument
• herbert
• nytimes
• new york times
• SMPA
• GW
• GWU
• GWUSMPA
• SMPAGWU
• mindy finn
• Al May