Civility & Respect

DEFINITION

The concept of civility includes treating others with respect, dignity and positive regard whether it involves interactions within the workplace or the community. The word civility has its root in the Latin word “civilis” relating to the concept of being a citizen and is presumptive of having good behavior in the public realm. Since the rise of the internet and social media, many have questioned whether civility has suffered, especially when it comes to political discourse. A lack of civility in social and political discourse increases intolerance, and widens the gap between those with differences of opinion. It is important to discover ways to engage in civil discourse and behavior if we are to live successfully in a pluralistic society.

OBJECTIVES:

• To explore the concept of civility in personal, social or political environments
• To understand the importance of civility and respect in a pluralistic society
• To identify ways to engage with others civilly and constructively around our differences

DISCUSSION:

• • View a few of the videos below.
  • Respond to discussion questions in thread provided.

DISCUSSION BOARD

• DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

  • 1) What is the most disrespected you have ever felt in your place of work or study?

    2) Can you think of a time when you treated someone else with disrespect?

    3) When have you witnessed someone being uncivil to someone else? What was that like for you and how did you respond?

    4) When have you engaged in a conversation with someone with a difference of opinion? How did the conversation end? In hindsight, could you have said or done anything differently to end the conversation amicably? If so, what?

    5) What does it mean for you personally to be a good citizen?

    6) What do you think would help increase civil discourse in our society, as it relates to differences in politics?

    7) What do you think would help increase civil discourse in our society, as it relates to differences in religion?

    8) Is civility necessary for unity? Or vice versa?

    9) What actions do you take to be a good citizen?

    10) What commitments are you willing to make to improve civility and respect in your personal, social and political discourse?

• POST EVENT EVALUATION  Links to an external site.
• Supplemental Resources - click here

VIDEOS