Response 1: Discussion in a Democratic Society

Laura Gemmill

Dr. Sean Agriss

ENGL 493

05 January 2016

Response 1: Discussion in a Democratic Society

In agreement with the authors of this article, an ideal discussion models an ideal democracy. While the ideal in either realm is unattainable, effective discussions and democracy are imperative for a meaningful human existence. Discussion is part of our humanity, and democracy is the vehicle for discussion. We are curious, social beings who crave interaction and knowledge. In a society built upon freedom of speech, we are invited to discuss ANYTHING. (Can I just point out it’s funny that a guy with the last name Lipman is writing about conversation?)

Because people are curious we like to be stimulated. Walking the conversational line between seriousness and playfulness is no fun unless you dabble on both sides along the way. Most people will not dwell in either camp too long before attempting to change it up. Considering the relationships between the three terms (dialog, conversation, and discussion), I would say dialog is structured and has a specific purpose, but no conclusion is required. Conversation has little structure or purpose, but usually has a conclusion. Discussions are less structured than dialogs but more so than conversations, begin with a purpose but could without one or with a different one, and may or may not produce conclusion(s) for those involved. I really liked discussion being described as an “unrehearsed intellectual adventure”. Humans are unique and organic, and everything we produce shares those characteristics. Every discussion is brand new, distinct from anything before it.

 Critical discussion requires some vulnerability, allowing your ideas to be challenged. If you are not vulnerable, it is a speech, not a discussion. I may display this quote from the text in my future classroom: “admit that one’s knowledge and experience are limited and incomplete”. Discussion is valuable for people who feel like they are alone in their experience; allowing people to connect while maintaining their identity. Without exposure to variety we would never grow. A great discussion fosters our similarities and our differences.