Civil Discourse in an Uncivil Age - A Talk with Alex Heffner

The Institute of Democratic Engagement & Accountability (IDEA) is proud to bring Alex Heffner, host of the PBS series The Open Mind, to campus February 7 to share opportunities for meaningful, effective political engagement that does not further contribute to polarization and division. Alexander is a coauthor of the bestselling A Documentary History of the United States (Penguin, 2022) and has covered American culture, politics, and civic life since he was a student during the 2008 presidential campaign. 

Heffner’s talk with be presented from  7 – 8:30 in the Policy Forum (first floor) of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs on February 7. Heffner will discuss the effects of divisiveness on discourse, campaigns and democratic governance as well as the influence of new media, disinformation and filter bubbles that polarize U.S. society. What are possible prescriptions to correct this cycle? How can our social footprint translate into constructive instead of destructive behavior? How can citizens, government and the press restore faith in civic life and the integrity of public policy?

The event is free and does not require tickets, but space is limited to 100, so registration is requested.