Democracy Reignited: The Way Out with Peter Coleman

Columbia University’s Peter T. Coleman presents a discussion on his 2021 title The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization. Dr. Coleman will share insights from his research on how divided societies can and do change. He will also share suggestions on what individuals can do as well as what to look for in groups and organizations in communities that are working to eliminate polarization. Manuel Meel, the CEO of BridgeUSA, facilitates the conversation.

Dr. Peter T. Coleman is a Professor of Psychology and Education at Columbia University where he holds a joint-appointment at Teachers College and The Earth Institute. Dr. Coleman directs the Morton Deutsch International Center for Cooperation and Conflict Resolution. He is a renowned expert on conflict resolution and sustainable peace. Dr. Coleman’s current research focuses on conflict intelligence and systemic wisdom for navigating conflict constructively across all levels (from families to companies to communities to nations) and includes projects on adaptive negotiation and mediation dynamics, cross-cultural adaptivity, optimality dynamics in conflict, justice and polarization, multicultural conflict, intractable conflict, and sustainable peace.

Registration is required to attend. This conversation is part of The Village Square’s UNUM: Democracy Reignited initiative in partnership with Florida Humanities. Funding for this initiative is provided in part with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and in partnership with The Village Square. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Additional streaming support is provided by Braver Angels, McCourtney Institute for Democracy, National Institute for Civil Discourse, BridgeUSA, the Listen First Project, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, Common Ground Committee, Civic Health Project, TP&R podcast, YOUnify, Citizen Connect, Center for the Humanities at the University of Miami, Tallahassee Democrat, WFSU Public Media, and Network for Responsible Public Policy.