Can We Learn to be More Civil?

10.11.23
What Happens Next?
Can We Learn to Be More Civil? | 93

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With the advent of social media, conversations and disagreements are magnified. But as our exchanges become increasingly digital, we must remember that behind every screen, there’s a fellow human being.

In the last episode of Season 8, Dr Susan Carland’s expert guests highlight the importance of maintaining civility, and its role in preserving democratic principles and collective pursuit of the common good.

Dr Amanda Stephens emphasises the importance of being aware of our mindset before engaging with others.

Dr Steven Zech points out that building cooperation – whether it’s between governments or individuals – takes time, and it can be lost in a moment.

Professor Lucas Walsh calls attention to the need to educate young people about common challenges such as climate change that demand collective solutions.

Associate Professor Helen Forbes-Mewett recognises the significance of civility as a cornerstone of social cohesion, particularly in multicultural societies.

Scott Stephens, co-host of ABC Radio National’s The Minefield, emphasises the essential nature of face-to-face interactions for understanding the moral reality of another person.

Finally, academic and presenter Dr Waleed Aly identifies the ways we can remove contempt and engage in good faith with people whose views we oppose.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Ripple effect: The social consequences of the ‘everyday’ hate crime
• Hi, neighbour: The dynamics that shape Melbourne's inter-ethnic relationships
• Why do people tailgate? A psychologist explains what's behind this common (and annoying) driving habit

Thank you for joining us for Season 8 of “What Happens Next?”. We’ll be back with all-new episodes in a few short months. Explore our back catalog or watch your favourite episodes.

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