Coming Discussion Topic
Atheism and Theism
Date: Thursday, September 3, 2009
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre
(To attend, please submit information at the bottom of this page.)
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Welcome to the Institute for Public Discussion
Internet forums and social networking sites are great, but something about the personal connection is missing. You are invited to participate in face-to-face discussions on issues that matter. Often our communication is about superficial things. Out of politeness or fear of hurt, we avoid talking about things that matter most to us. Because of our need to protect ourselves and others, our relationships become shallow, lacking depth and meaning. The Institute for Public Discussion organizes structured public events that allow participants to safely discuss meaningful issues: values and beliefs, morality, social concerns.
The Topics
The Institute invites you to suggest topics for discussion. Examples include the following:
Atheism, Humanism, and Theism
Islam and Terrorism
Islam and Women
Pro-Choice and Pro-Life
Partial Birth Abortion
Parental Consent and Abortion
Assisted Suicide
Gay Marriage
Origins of Homosexuality
Adoption by Same-Sex Couples
Evolution and Intelligent Design
Catholicism and Protestantism
Buddhism and Christianity
Israeli and Palestinian Interests
The War in Iraq and Afghanistan
Internet Pornography and Free Expression
Aboriginal Land Claims
Animal Rights
Homelessness
Mental Health Policy
Drug Policy
The Structure
The public discussion takes place within a two-hour period divided as follows:
1. Host introduction of topic and reflective listening: 20 minutes
2. Host demonstrates reflection with volunteer participants: 20 minutes
3. Participants engage in speaking and reflecting in pairs with coaching by the host: 20 minutes
4. Break: 15 minutes
5. Participants engage in speaking and reflecting in pairs with coaching by the host: 30 minutes
6. Group discussion wrap-up: 10 minutes
7. Closing by host: 5 minutes
Additional structure consists of principles of respectful communication including: no name-calling, no judgmental terms or put down's, no demeaning sarcasm, no obscenities or profanity, no raised voices, no dominating the time, no finger pointing or threatening gestures.
In the reflective period, the one expressing views in pairs will briefly assert his/her beliefs in a few sentences, followed by the listener making a reflective statement of those views followed by asserting his/her own views. This process is alternated between the two parties. Please see the video here for a demonstration.
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The Venue
The discussions take place in Vancouver, B.C. at a conference center or public gathering place such as a church, synagogue, temple or mosque. The per person admission is by donation ($10) to the Institute at the time and location of the event.
To Attend
To state your intention to attend this event, please submit the following information. This also tells us how many people will be attending. Your email will remain confidential.
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Hosts are needed for discussion groups of all sizes from 8 to 800 people. What size group can you host? Would you be willing to attend a brief half-day host training event?
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