John R. Hoffman is a Professor of Biology, public speaker and a scientist examining the recovery of the nervous system after injury. Since 2006 he has written several unpublished manuscripts and he is currently working on the first Nathaniel Smythe novel and short story collection. He spends his spare time with his family and running.

02 Perspective and Controversy

Objectives:

At the end of this topic, the student will be able to

  1. Describe how each individual carries a unique perspective on the world around them.
  2. provide examples of different perspectives to the same observation or situation.
  3. explain how differing perspectives can give rise to conflict between individuals or groups.
  4. describe basic rules of civility to allow for polite discourse and disagreements during academic discussions.
  5. interact with classmates in a respectful and informed manner.

Part 1. Perspective and Controversy

This video lecture examines how different perspectives can give rise to conflict and controversies. The handout for this presentation can be downloaded and printed.

Reading: “About Conflict,” Office of Human Resource Development, UW-Madison.

Part 2. Civility

This video lecture examines basic principles of civility for discussion of controversial topics within the class. The handout for this presentation can be downloaded and printed.

Reading: “The Meaning of Civility” by Burgess and Burgess.

Reading: “How to disagree” by Paul Graham

Assignment: The Civility of Civilized Politics
2012 is a presidential election year, with all of the congressional representatives and 1/3 of the senators up for election.  It appears that the next 10 months will be filled with partisan bickering, attack ads, mud-slinging, and debates.

In your small discussion group: Discuss what things can be done to promote a civil discourse of the important issues that require the attention of our elected officials.

Previous: 01 – Course Introduction

Next: 03 – Introduction to Philosophy