Thinking Out Loud Together - Why Civil Discourse Matters on Campus

In this insightful talk, novelist and professor Dr. Randy Boyagoda addressed the crucial role that civil discourse plays within academic institutions. Civil discourse, according to Professor Boyagoda, goes beyond mere conversation-it is a commitment to engaging with others thoughtfully and respectfully, both inside and outside the classroom, to foster a collaborative exchange of ideas. In a time when academic communities are increasingly polarized by conflicts, divides, and extreme positions, civil discourse offers a vital pathway for individuals to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Professor Boyagoda argued that civil discourse matters because it provides a framework for people to recognize, respect, and wrestle with differences and disagreements. Rather than viewing these differences as obstacles, civil discourse encourages participants to see them as opportunities for learning, growth, and mutual understanding. By thinking out loud together, members of the academic community can reach a shared understanding of important issues and ideas, even when they approach them from divergent perspectives.
Through this presentation, Professor Boyagoda underlined the importance of civil discourse as a tool for overcoming division, resolving conflicts, and fostering a more united and collaborative academic community. This talk served as a call to action for universities to prioritize civil discourse as a central element of their intellectual and social fabric, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the skills and mindset to engage productively with others in a diverse and often divided world.
This event was co-presented by UCalgary’s Community Mental Health & Well-Being Strategy and the Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion as part UFlourish 2024 and Courageous Conversations.