In this episode, we explore the essential role of debate in democratic life with Sara Cooper from the organization My Country Talks. Sara graduated from the Hertie School with an MPP in 2018. We discuss what makes for a healthy discussion culture and the actions we can all take to nurture a culture of constructive dialogue in our immediate environment. Plus, we dive into democratic backsliding, the polarization we see in the world today, and even the latest developments from the recent elections in Eastern Germany.
Expect to learn:
The difference between ideological vs. affective polarization.
The toxicity of the “Zero-sum game” world-view.
The role of media in fostering understanding and bridging divides.
How Sara navigates difficult conversations in her own life.
Sara’s advice for “How to Hertie”.