Conflict/Dialogue/Difference

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

This seminar will provide a "hands on" overview of the skills, techniques and approaches that scholars and activists use to foster mutual recognition, empathy and truthful but respectful dialogues in societies divided by identity and ideological conflict. Two kinds of readings will guide this course: conceptual readings drawn from the literature on dialogue, cultural "reframing" and "hard conversations;" and a practice-oriented readings that exemplify grass-roots strategies and techniques for building trust, mutual understanding and empathy. These strategies are the core of this course. Together, will will learn and practice a variety of skills that experts in the field of conflict resolution are today using in many countries. Our focus will be on the context of extreme or "affective" polarization. For this purpose we will spend several class periods exploring the use of theater and performance as tools for fostering productive listening and mutual recognition. This work will draw from the "In Your Shoes" project at Georgetown University, from the "Theater of the Oppressed" project that is now practiced world-wide and from other hands-on initiatives and programs. The goal of this course is three-fold: first, for students to learn and practice a variety skills essential to productive dialogue; two, for students to see how these skills are taught and practiced in the deeply polarized arena of US society; and three, for students to feel confident that they can take these skills into their own societies to promote productive conversations, mutual respect and empathy across ideological, social and cultural divides. We hope to host at several class sessions visiting guest scholars and activists from Georgetown University and to organize at least one zoom session with US. grassroots groups such as "Braver Angels." No prior experience in this kind of skill building, or in theater, performance or dialogue work is required. What is vital is that you enter this class with open and generous hearts.