Two experts on conflict resolution will be in a virtual discussion at the Mark Twain Library on Wednesday, March 9th at 7:30pm to offer insights into how deeply divided societies can, and in fact do, change.
Dr. Peter Coleman, a Professor of Psychology and Education at Columbia University who studies polarizing, intractable conflict and sustainable peace recently published a book, The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization. Dr. R. Averell Manes is a Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU). They have been invited to present the fifth installment of the series “Conversations: Truth, Myth & Democracy,” which is co-hosted by the Mark Twain Library and the Redding League of Women Voters.
This virtual conversation is in response to the current state of divisive politics pervasive in our communities and sets out to address understanding such conflicts with the hope of learning how to intervene constructively. By immersing themselves in this conversation between these two experts, community members will gain access to knowledge and outlook that can lead to healthy interactions and better relationships.
Publishersweekly.com asserts that Coleman’s approach “yields fresh insights and reasons for hope. Policymakers and community activists will want to take note.”
According to barnesandnoble.com, Coleman “meticulously details principles and practices for navigating and healing the difficult divides in our homes, workplaces, and communities, blending compelling personal accounts from his years of working on entrenched conflicts with lessons from leading-edge research.”
“The Conversations: Truth, Myth & Democracy Program” was designed to address the difficult issues of truth-telling and myth-busting within our democracy by bringing much-needed community conversations to help promote education, informed dialogue and civil discourse. The series is brought to you in association with Easton Public Library, Weston Public Library, Newtown’s C.H. Booth Library, Ridgefield Library, WCSU’s Ruth Haas Library, The League of Women Voters of Ridgefield, The League of Women Voters of Weston and The League of Women Voters of Northern Fairfield County.
Register for both the March 9th book conversation and the March 22nd discussion at: www.marktwainlibrary.org or call the Library at 203-938-2545 for information.
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
The Mark Twain Library is owned by the Mark Twain Library Association. It was founded in 1908 by Samuel Clemens – Mark Twain himself – one of Redding’s most celebrated residents. Visit www.marktwainlibrary.org, for more information.