Learn to Listen...

Working in the field of environmental consulting affords more than a few opportunities to be involved in controversial public issues and debates. The Institute for Civic Discourse and Democracy (ICDD) at Kansas State University has some excellent advice and techniques to help make our governance processes and democracy better in these instances. 

A quick review of the ground rules for public discussion is helpful for everyone who is interested in solving the challenging issues of our day through active participation in healthy civil debates.

With the current policital climate expecting to heat up even more with the coming Presidential election, I would encourage everyone to make an effort to treat others and behave as described in the Civil Discourse Pledge.

Civil Discourse Pledge:
"I pledge to engage in the basic principles of civil discourse: to respect diverse points of view; seek to understand before being understood; listen with an open mind; and speak with integrity. If I do not agree with another position or point of view, I will disagree in a respectful way. I will not disparage those with other opinions. I call on all of us involved in civic leadership to meet the challenge of solving difficult social issues by adhering to these principles."*

Let's work to treat each other, despite our differences in opinions, with the civility and respect we all deserve!

- JMB

*Adapted from the Project Civil Discourse Pledge, National Institute for Civil Discourse, University of Arizona.