Better Discourse seeks a future where Americans can have constructive conversations, even about difficult societal issues and decisions.
Civil discourse serves as the foundational process for our democracy and needed for sound policy-making and stronger, more resilient communities. Let’s work together to realize better conversations and a better tomorrow.
A Serious Problem
Corrosive forces in our information environment are driving hyper polarization in American society, resulting in enmity and mistrust among Americans and an unnatural purification of America’s political poles. The online amplification of callous conversations reverberates into our public spaces and our media. Hyper polarization is undermining the trust in public institutions that is necessary for democracy and damaging relationships among Americans – within our communities, the workplace, and even within families. America’s strength depends on our capacity to engage one another in civil discussion, even when we disagree.
Our Mission
Better Discourse is dedicated to strengthening American democracy by improving the quality of public discourse. We seek to elevate our common understanding of the online forces driving division and mistrust and promote innovative solutions that are consistent with Americans’ rights and freedoms.
Our Projects
Better Discourse is conducting two activities in pursuit of our mission – a documentary film and study of online behavior. Through storytelling and research, we are working toward a future where differences do not divide us but instead help us create a healthier democracy and a stronger, more resilient nation. Enhanced understanding of our information environment, and one another, will enable improved attention on aspects of the problem that are within our control. Our projects will facilitate the rediscovery of civil conversation, helping communities reconnect, rebuild trust, and find common ground.
Explore this site to learn more.