You’re invited to participate in a Better Angels debate on guns in America to be held on Monday, Oct. 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Mt. Laurel Library. Better Angels is a nation-wide organization that is helping depolarize America by providing skills and opportunities to hold civil conversations about politics, even when we disagree. The topic of second amendment rights and gun violence is often a difficult one, but it doesn’t have to be.
A Better Angels debate is a different kind of debate in which a group of people bring their views and perspectives to think together about a difficult question. There are no winners or losers. The purpose is to express your views and listen to others. More information about Better Angels can be found at www.better-angels.org.
Better Angels uses modified parliamentary procedure, which helps us speak respectfully and listen carefully to each other. The resolution we’ll be debating is, “Resolved: It is unrealistic to think we can stop mass shootings by changing gun laws.” At the debate, participants will express their thoughts for or against the resolution. It is also okay, actually encouraged, to express doubt or nuance, and even to change your mind. At its best, this debate is a collective search for greater understanding about an important issue through a vigorous, passionate airing of views, without descending to personal attacks.
There are three goals here:
– To better understand our own views
– To better understand opposing views
– To form stronger relationships with those around us.
After the debate adjourns, participants will take a few minutes to share what we found surprising, and what we enjoyed.
If you have any questions about this event or Better Angels, email: kreiner@better-angels.org.
