Talking Nice: Erasmus and the Language of Peace and Civility
Does discourse and debate result in polarization, fear and violence?  Or, is it possible to engage in critical thinking and still maintain civility?  In a world where the loudest voices are often the only ones heard, how can we achieve peace, unity, moderation and tolerance?

Erasmus, the great Dutch humanist, was deeply disturbed by the animosity that characterized public discourse and debate in early 16th-century Europe. In response Erasmus crafted a worldview devoted to peace, unity, moderation, and tolerance. This presentation will encourage civil public discourse while also suggesting that the vocabulary of "peace," "freedom," and "moderation" is sometimes a cover for very different purposes.