Pluralist Lab

About

What We Offer

Our Goals

Participate

We aim to empower individuals to engage in civil discourse.

Pluralist Lab

It’s no secret that America has become more polarized as different factions vie for political and public influence. So, how do we talk to people who have very different views than ours?

The Pluralist Lab is an innovative program that brings together a small group of people with diverse perspectives to engage in facilitated conversation on controversial topics such as crime, immigration, poverty alleviation, and education reform.

The goal is not to change opinions or to debate but to better understand why someone may hold a different perspective. These insights become the foundation for building bridges rather than burning them down.

Our method incorporates techniques used in focus group discussions, marriage counseling, and reflection exercises.

What We Offer

Half-Day Workshops

The half-day workshop (7-10 participants) includes expertly facilitated conversation techniques using colored paddles to signal agreement, disagreement, or neutrality on issues to encourage dynamic exchanges of perspectives and build active and reflective listening skills. Writing exercises provide time for personal reflection and group discussion builds empathy and understanding.

Two-Day Forums

The two-day forum (25+ participants) is designed for alumni of half-day workshops to continue to build civil discourse skills through in-depth dialogue on a single policy issue. In addition to the half-day workshop exercises, interdisciplinary experts model respectful, civil dialogue through panel discussions on policy issues and facilitate round table and large group discussions.

Conference breakout sessions

Conference breakout sessions introduce larger groups to the concept of the Pluralist Lab and provide a demonstration of some or all of the exercises of a full lab experience. Sessions can range from 1-3 hours in length and can be customized for the conference audience and purpose.

Our Goals

Encourage Viewpoint Diversity and Mutual Understanding

We aim for participants to appreciate the value of diverse viewpoints and to enter into conversations with an attitude of respect, authenticity, and curiosity, which are pivotal for fostering social trust in a pluralistic society.

Equip for Constructive Conversations

We encourage participants to practice active and reflective listening techniques that prompt an “I never thought of it that way” moment. We value productive dialogues over win-lose debates, in an environment where diverse conclusions are a bridge to deeper understanding, not division.

Drive Social Change

Our hope is that participants take what they learn back to their communities, neighborhoods, and workplaces. As ambassadors for pluralism, participants can confidently and respectfully engage with those who disagree with them and help others do the same.

Who Should Participate?

Designed primarily for college students, our program is suited for anyone interested in developing their dialogue skills, understanding diverse perspectives, and contributing positively to societal discourse. Pluralist Lab workshops can be adapted for a variety of audiences and environments from schools to faith-based communities to civic organizations or businesses.

Be Part of the Change

In a time marked by division, the Pluralist Lab offers hope for creating unity and understanding through empathy, respect, and open-mindedness. If you're passionate about making a difference and keen to be part of a community dedicated to advancing civil discourse, contact us to learn more.

What Others Are Saying

Bridging Divides: A Workshop on Civil Discourse at NDSU

"The Pluralist Lab was a highly engaging and interactive workshop designed to cultivate a culture of respectful dialogue and create an environment where individuals and communities with differing opinions and perspectives can come together to build mutual understanding."

Civil Conversations: How to Model Civil Discourse with Your Students

"Democracy thrives when its citizens share a set of norms and understandings to establish common ground that’s rooted in listening, respect, authenticity, and curiosity. How can teachers convey the message that polarizing topics are not necessarily toxic, and that a healthy American democracy does not mean that everyone agrees?"

Why An Economics-Focused Research Center Is Taking on Illiberalism

"Mercatus introduced the Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange in response to the recent rise in “illiberal ideologies such as authoritarianism, socialism, and nativism” plaguing our societies and threatening centuries of progress. The program will include visiting fellows, a Pluralist Lab and various partnerships with similar programs at other educational institutions."

Great Antidote: Undivide US

"We talk about Ben’s journey and how it led him to this project, the findings of the Undivide Us documentary, and potential solutions to the divisions in society today. Near the end, we discuss the relationship between technology and affective polarization, and the limitations of virtual interactions. Ben gives advice to individuals and institutions longing for deeper connections across perceived boundaries and divisions."

Listen to the full episode

Ben Klutsey at Opening Forum: Civic Learning Week

"How do we define a deeper civic learning and development of a civic identity that goes beyond ideologies that threaten ever-increasing polarization? This panel will discuss recent data on perceptions around civic language; the resulting challenges that arise for providing high-quality civic education for each and every student in this nation; and the value in fostering pluralism and civil exchange."