Opinion
Yes, we can stop the fire
Charlie Kirk wasn’t a soldier in war or a criminal attempting a violent act. He was slain while debating public issues with university students.
Opinion
Psychology helps explain political divide
Because I spend much of my time encouraging constructive engagement across political difference, through such programs as Duke University’s North Carolina Leadership Forum, readers sometimes ask me if I think political differences are more appearance than reality — that if we just tried hard enough, we could reach a broad public consensus on many seemingly...
Opinion
To fix our politics, try conversation
At the start of each North Carolina Leadership Forum, we ask our participants to introduce themselves by telling a story about a person or experience that helped make them who they are today. Although I co-founded NCLF, based at Duke University, I can’t claim credit for this idea. It was my colleague Leslie Winner —...
Opinion
We all win when we argue
What we want is for our leaders to stop bickering so much. Only then can we have rich and productive arguments about the future of our state and nation.
Opinion
Let’s disagree more constructively
What most voters mean by “bringing the country together” is that we ought to stop reflexively and viciously questioning the motives, integrity, or intelligence of those with whom we disagree.
Opinion
Education debate need not be vicious
For most parents, there is no practical alternative to enrolling their children in public or private schools. So, our schools will reopen. And North Carolinians are going to have lots of arguments about it.
Opinion
Psychology helps explain political divide
Our political differences extend far beyond contrasting views on specific pieces of legislation or electoral candidates. Deeply held feelings and values are at play.
Opinion
Temper power with responsibility
Part of the solution for our uncivil politics will arise from convincing current and prospect political leaders to take responsibility for the problem and start doing something about it.
Opinion
Why are you reading this?
If you yearn for a better political dialogue, reward those who deliver it with your time and money.
Opinion
Carolina needs civil, curious leaders
To engage with others more constructively is not to surrender your position or show weakness. It is a sign of confidence and strength.
Opinion
Some reforms enjoy broad support
Many state leaders believe that North Carolina should find ways to ease the transition of convicted criminals into the job market, reform occupational licensing, and offer more apprenticeships.
Opinion
Learning and winning go together
Learning about why others disagree with you is hardly an impediment to achieving political victories. Nor is learning how to disagree without being an obnoxious jackass.
