How the Constitution Helps Us to Disagree

Deliberation is the practice that holds our democracy together, but does it always lead to better decisions? When citizens only talk to like-minded citizens, the thinking gets stuck and the decisions tend to be more extreme. This presentation gives participants a chance to find new ways to think about a contentious issue using the basic principles of the Constitution: freedom of speech and due process. Instead of carving out one’s (predictable) position in the culture wars, we’ll look at the best arguments on a contentious issue from the view point of progressives, conservatives, and libertarians. By the end of the discussion, participants will have a greater understanding of how the Constitution can help us to foster political friendships.

Peterborough Town Library is fully accessible. There is no pre-registration for this event. Please note that library parking is not guaranteed. Patrons who are able are encouraged to take advantage of Peterborough’s walkable downtown by parking in the Depot Square or Riverwalk lots.