Category Archives: Perspectives
Possibilities and Exploratory Discussion
Some people wonder why IF’s discussions focus on possibilities for public policy. The term “possibility” underlines the openended-ness of public policy and the reality that discussing and making public policy both require choice. Still, the real reason for thinking about and discussing public policy in terms of possibilities is that it encourages exploration. And, because Read more »
Being a River Guide
I have often struggled to better explain how the Interactivity Foundation conceives of the role and function of a facilitator in our discussion projects. My incoherence probably derives from a couple reasons (at least and in addition to my usual cognitive limitations). First, “facilitation” is at best a general term and a skill that encompasses Read more »
What is Poetry?
When Robert Frost was asked ‘What is poetry?’ he replied ‘Poetry is the kind of thing that poets write’. A natural response to such a definition might be a knowing smile and a barrage of questions that try to get at the core of what poetry is or what it might be. This is one Read more »
Posted in Perspectives Tagged art, contrasting possibilities, creativity, discovery, personal development Leave a comment
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Social Psychology and Recruiting for Public Discussions
Back in March I described recruiting single individuals to IF public discussions as a “dead end.” I meant not that it couldn’t be done, but rather that IF’s experience so far is that it’s easier and more effective to work with groups that already exist in the community. I don’t think it’s any great mystery, Read more »
Not So Benign a Conflict
As our nation celebrates Independence Day, I am reminded that much of American history is based in conflict. The crucible within which we forged our independence was a war fought mightily against a more powerful enemy, anchored in the energy of a righteous indignation that painted that enemy as a monstrous oppressor. Throughout much of Read more »
Posted in Perspectives Tagged civic engagement, conversations, discussion process, generosity Leave a comment
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IF Essay on CNN Website: How to Keep Wall Street Under Control
The Opinion section of CNN’s website has just published a short piece, How to Keep Wall Street Under Control, by IF Fellows Adolf Gundersen and Jeff Prudhomme, with editorial and other assistance from IF Fellow Natalie Hopkinson. You can read the full article by clicking on the preceding link. This op-ed briefly describes some of Read more »
Truth and Consequences
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