Public discourse about 21st century problems, such as COVID-19, climate change and drought, is divisive.
A record 77% of Americans believe that our nation is divided on the most important values.
The Laboratory for the American Conversation's methodology uses social theory, discourse analysis and large-scale surveys to uncover what values communities express when they enter into public discourse, and what threats they are trying to avoid.
*Gallup survey, 2016
Our researchers promote intellectually and inter-culturally rich environments that fosters dialogue among diverse groups on critical issues confronting the American public.
This work advances the public good and confronts complex problems.
We need to find new ways forward even when finding common ground remains elusive
Your generous gift will support the Laboratory for the American Conversation’s timely and relevant initiative to bring real science and effective outreach to advance civil discourse. The fund will create undergraduate fellowships, leverage federal grant applications, bring national experts for a speaker series on civil discourse, develop non-partisan communication tools, and support Laboratory researchers ability to extend their expertise to local, state and national audiences.
Your support will advance productive dialogue and common understanding in our nation.
(Select "OSU-Cascades Laboratory for the American Conversation Fund" from the drop-down menu)