Sanford Leading the Way in Civil Discourse

As we navigate a period marked by significant political polarization and our recent election, Sanford is underscoring the importance of bipartisanship, human connection and civil discourse. These elements are not just ideals; they are essential for the health and success of our democracy. 

This fall, Duke Provost Alec Gallimore launched the Provost’s Initiative on Free Inquiry, Pluralism, and Belonging, a campus-wide endeavor aimed at promoting open deliberation within our classrooms and throughout the campus. In support of this initiative, Sanford has initiated a series of events focused on exploring the roots and impacts of political polarization. In addition, our recent Rubenstein Lecture featuring David Brooks' new book explored the importance of human connection in our increasingly polarized world. 

Among our key efforts is the "Bridging the Divide" initiative, featuring Richard Burr, former U.S. Senator from North Carolina, who has joined us as a Polis Distinguished Fellow. This program seeks to foster dialogue among individuals with differing ideological perspectives. Our inaugural event took place on September 9, where Burr engaged in conversation with Provost Gallimore. We look forward to our next discussion on December 4, where Burr will be joined by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) to discuss bipartisan achievements in health policy, moderated by Professor Kate Bundorf.

The Duke Immerse course, Civil Discourse and Democracy, offers students an interdisciplinary opportunity to explore how public debates influence policymaking, higher education, and media narratives. With significant leadership from faculty members Phil Napoli and Stephen Buckley, this course invites students from diverse backgrounds to engage with critical questions about the role of the First Amendment and the responsibilities of democratic leaders in fostering civil discourse.

The Civil Discourse Project, previously under the Kenan Institute of Ethics, is now part of the Polis: Center for Politics. Under the leadership of Professor Abdullah Antepli, this project continues to cultivate an environment of respectful disagreement and dialogue within our community, promoting intellectual diversity both inside and outside the classroom.

Sanford also plays a significant role in the Provost's Initiative on the Middle East, led by Professor Bruce Jentleson. This initiative is creating a forum for rigorous and respectful debate on complex regional conflicts. Through this initiative, Sanford and Duke aim to model thoughtful engagement and enhance our understanding through evidence-based scholarship, inviting a range of perspectives into the discussion.

I also would like to recognize an interdisciplinary effort led by faculty in both Sanford and Trinity College to engage students in dialogue around the virtues of democracy. With leadership from Brian Hare in Trinity, more than a dozen faculty from across disciplines have provided valuable insights on democracy throughout this election season in this opinion series featuring Sanford and Trinity faculty.

Civil discourse is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. It allows us to engage thoughtfully with differing viewpoints, to listen with empathy, and to find common ground amidst our differences. When we prioritize respectful communication, we create an environment where innovative solutions can flourish—solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of all citizens, not just a select few. Bipartisanship is equally critical, reminding us that collaboration, rather than conflict, is the path to effective governance. From tackling climate change, improving healthcare, to enhancing education, the most effective policies often emerge from a spirit of cooperation.

I encourage our community to join us on the journey to improved civil discourse and belonging. We must create forums for meaningful discussions, invite voices from all sides, and approach every conversation with a willingness to understand and compromise – for a better democracy.

Photo by Trey Mathews featuring Duke students in discussion with author and journalist David Brooks about his new book: "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen."