Munk Debates - Political Correctness 2018

Описание: Is political correctness an enemy of free speech, open debate and the free exchange of ideas? Or, by confronting head-on the dominant power relationships and social norms that exclude marginalised groups are we creating a more equitable and just society? For some the argument is clear. Political correctness is stifling the free and open debate that fuels our democracy. It is also needlessly dividing one group from another and promoting social conflict. Others insist that creating public spaces and norms that give voice to previously marginalised groups broadens the scope of free speech. The drive towards inclusion over exclusion is essential to creating healthy, diverse societies in an era of rapid social change.

The Spring 2018 Munk Debate will move the motion: Be it resolved, what you call political correctness, I call progress…

The Debaters
Michael Eric Dyson
Pro
"You’re telling me I’m being sensitive, and students looking for safe spaces that they’re being hypersensitive. If you’re white, this country is one giant safe space."

Michelle Goldberg
Pro
"The focus must be on protecting the groups of people who are targets precisely because of their identities. To sideline their interests is to accede to a backlash that has just begun…"

Stephen Fry
Con
"The advances of the Enlightenment are being systematically and deliberately pushed back."

Jordan Peterson
Con
"Without free speech there is no true thought."