As our world becomes increasingly polarized and our opinions become more fractionated, we find our society and democracy being pulled to its seams. Whether it’s a political, cultural, or social divide, these speakers explore and share actionable strategies for bridging these differences by finding a language in which we can speak to one another and build a community around, and not despite, disagreement.
Anand Giridharadas
Bestselling author of Winners Take All and a top on-air political analyst for MSNBC
Anand Giridharadas reveals how belief in the power of persuasion is critical to a healthy democracy, and encourages audiences to engage in meaningful dialogue by:
- Finding meaning-making connections
- Creating a strategy for belonging and being part of something
- Inviting people in and inspiring them by telling a better story
Bo Seo
Two-time world champion debater and author of Good Arguments
Bo Seo demonstrates how good arguments can help us bridge differences by:
- Viewing the debate from the opposing perspective
- Listening actively
- Disagreeing with respect
Dr. Simran Jeet Singh
Motivational speaker, author, and human rights activist
Dr. Simran Jeet Singh shares stories on how to lessen frustrations and avoid toxic traps of hate and anger by:
- Choosing love over hate
- Building reservoirs of compassion
Ximena Vengoechea
Author of Listen Like You Mean It, UX Researcher, Illustrator
Ximena Vengoechea equips audiences with tools and techniques for tackling difficult conversations by:
- Cultivating a listening mindset and encouraging vulnerability
- Asking the right questions to deepen a conversation
- Navigating a discussion that’s gone off the rails
Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt
Authors of the New York Times-bestselling How Democracies Die
Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt open up conversations about saving democracy by:
- Practicing understanding, patience, and empathy to achieve a broad consensus
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Building alliances that extend beyond traditional party lines