Seeking Civility

“Read My Lips: The Compelling Case Against Civility,” a Phi Kappa Phi lecture on understanding reasons for uncivil behavior, will be given by Associate Communication Studies Professor Michael Giuliano 7 p.m. March 31 in Hieronymus Lounge at Westmont.

Associate Communication Studies Professor Deborah Dunn and Associate Religious Studies Professor Bruce Fisk will respond.

“There has never been a greater need for an explosion of civility in public discourse. When we don't leave the other feeling respected, we lose faith in the power of words to change things, and then we turn to other, more destructive means (such as physical force),” Giuliano said.

Last May, Giuliano taught a course on reconciliation in Northern Ireland in the context of the Irish conflict.
“The lecture is designed to help us understand the reasons for uncivil behavior, in order that we can stand a better chance of moving others away from such behavior,” Giuliano said.

Giuliano will explore the Christian case against civility, as well as a counterpoint to Christian incivility. For more information, contact the Westmont public affairs office at 565-6051.