Experts and pundits agree that much of the power of the current political divide in the United States is grounded in messages designed to inspire and incite its audiences.
Dr. Joseph Zompetti, professor of communication at Illinois State University, has been studying political rhetoric—those messages and their impact—for most of his career. Zompetti will lead a discussion titled “Political Polarization” from 7–8:30 p.m. Thursday, January 28, on Zoom.
Zompetti has lectured and taught in nearly 30 countries about divisive political rhetoric and its impact. His work in political rhetoric earned him the University’s Outstanding University Teacher award in 2019. In October, Zompetti led the University’s virtual Presidential Debate discussion on Zoom, attracting more than 60 participants.
Through “Political Polarization,” Zompetti will look at the causes of polarized political discussion and offer potential ways of addressing them. He will also lead a discussion and offer practical techniques to help manage the political toxicity in conversations. The presentation is based on his recent book Divisive Discourse.
This event is being organized by the School of Communication Promotion and Development Team (SoC PD) Team in collaboration with the Center for Civic Engagement. The SoC PD Team is an internship opportunity in which student interns plan and execute professional development events for the School of Communication.
To attend the event on Zoom, simply visit the link to the virtual event (an Illinois State University account is required to attend).
