Poster Presentation 6th World Congress on Positive Psychology 2019

Viewpoint Diversity: A Fresh Lens For Positive Education (#712)

Erin McLaughlin 1
  1. The Shipley School, Bryn Mawr, PA, United States

In this time of increasing affective polarization throughout the world, the importance of finding a positive path forward for political discourse cannot be understated. This talk is focused on the clear need for cultivating viewpoint diversity to create better global citizens. It offers a framework with objectives and practical next steps that can be embraced in educational institutions and beyond. Distinguishing viewpoint diversity from other educational movements that espouse empathy and tolerance, this talk aims to establish the importance of placing inquiry over advocacy in an effort to truly understand ourselves, other people, and the world around us. Viewpoint diversity means equipping ourselves and our students with the skills to engage in civil discussions and to elect (and become) knowledgeable and attuned leaders. With specific emphasis on awareness and intellectual humility, the point of this presentation is to drive home this crucial truth: If other people matter, then their views must matter, too.