For the Founding Fathers, civil discourse was not merely a matter of manners: it was understood as both a practical safeguard of liberty and a moral duty of self-government. The ability to argue, deliberate, and compromise was regarded as indispensable to a republic founded on consent rather than coercion. By tracing the roots of civil discourse in American history and examining its role in preserving freedom, we gain insight into both its resilience and its fragility. This week’s featured resources consider how hope, trust, and renewed habits of respectful dialogue are essential to preserving the living practice of liberty.
