Polarization, Misinformation, and Civil Discourse in U.S. Politics

Please join us for an engaging discussion on the state of political polarization and the spread of misinformation, and how both undermine civil discourse in U.S. politics. Librarian Elora Agsten (College of Wooster) will share her expertise on mis- and disinformation and how we can detect it and avoid inadvertently spreading it, especially during campaign seasons when it is likely to be rampant. She will be joined by Professor Lauren Copeland (Baldwin-Wallace University), a self-described “politics and data-science nerd”, who will discuss polarization in U.S. politics and strategies about how we can build connections with and engage in real, but civil, discourse with those whose political values we may not share. This event is designed to help us learn more about political communication, facilitate thoughtful dialogue, and cultivate a greater sense of mutual understanding across political divides. It is open to all members of the College of Wooster campus and the broader Wooster community. Light refreshments will be available.