Barry University’s Center for Community Service Initiatives presents a Deliberative Dialogue
Political Discourse in this Election Season: Rhetoric, Rights, and Responsibilities
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
4:00–5:30 p.m.
Andreas 112
Barry University, Miami Shores
Free and open to the public.
Refreshments will be provided.
Name-calling, scapegoating, and attacks on candidates’ families and physical appearances are prevalent this election season. In a recent article, The New York Times characterized the rhetoric as “a war of playground insults.”
Even comedians have expressed concern. Said Stephen Colbert, “For those of you that have been following American democracy for the past 240 years, we have officially hit a new low.”
At the same time, the media has replaced complex analysis with soundbites and simplistic representations, labeling blocks of voters as “extreme right” or “extreme left,” rather than breaking down differences in values and public policies.
Should the convictions of a candidate and his or her supporters be dismissed as hateful rhetoric and incitement to violence? What can be inferred about American culture and intergroup relations from the acrimonious dialogue? Have off-color remarks and insults always been a mainstay of American elections? Are the candidates, the voters, or the media to blame? Is this “gloves off” approach to politics the new normal?
Join community experts, students, alumni, faculty, and staff to explore collaborative approaches to this timely issue.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Center for Community Service Initiatives
11300 NE Second Avenue, Miami, FL 33161
service@barry.edu / 305-899-3696
www.barry.edu/service