Debate About Affordable Housing and Property Rights in St. George Aims for Understanding

Since 2016 a group has been trying to help the nation have better debates that increase understanding rather than leave people angry and divided. You can see how it works for yourself with a debate taking place in St. George on Wednesday October 21.

Reviving Healthy Political Discourse

The organization is named Braver Angels and they will be meeting at the Pioneer Courthouse from 6:30 to 8 PM. The topic of the debate is Affordable Homes vs. Property Values.

Here's how these debates are different than you see on television during campaign season. There is no declared winner as understanding both sides is the goal. People address the chair of the debate rather than each other.

A Different Kind of Debate: Fostering Understanding

The audience is different as well as they mix in equally and no snarky comments or interruptions are allowed. After someone speaks, audience members can ask questions for clarification but they cannot not be combative, just curious.

If you are tired of the toxic political climate and want to gain more understanding of a topic, this might be worth your time. Participants of past debates have been happy with the atmosphere and the knowledge they gained. They say it is what our times need.

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There have been some that say the debates are good, but that those who attend are generally the ones who would find middle ground anyway. They say those who could benefit the most from listening to the other side are unlikely to attend.

I think this is a noble effort and I am glad Braver Angels have created a place where people can express opinions without fear. I don't see any negative to learning to listen to each other better.