This article is from The Lantern’s senior reporter Christian Halsa. Khalsa is in his fourth year of communication and psychology, and this past semester he planned his two debates at The Lantern.
It is said that democracy dies in darkness. I disagree. It disappears in silence.
When planning the Lantern debate last fall, I struggled with an unexpected challenge: recruiting passionate college students to speak out in favor of abortion.
In cities that continue to vote 3 to 1 in favor Issue 1: Send pro-abortion speakers to university panels 60,000 It seemed simple.
Oh, how wrong we were.
This search was in preparation for an event to discuss Ohio Issues 1 and 2, which will appear on the November 2023 ballot. The event is 2nd iteration At The Lantern, I spearheaded thoughtful and heartfelt conversations among students, bringing to light nuances that are often hard to emphasize on a higher stage.
But the dozens of emails, phone calls, texts, and direct messages received little attention. Even leaders of student advocacy organizations passionate about this issue have declined or completely ignored invitations to speak in support of the very principles their organizations are built on.
Thankfully, our frantic marathon investigation over several months was resolved in the last 48 hours, with full panels awarded to both Issues 1 and 2. However, the unexpected difficulties left me frustrated and curious. In the age of the internet, where comment sections are filled with everyone’s opinions, why are so few people willing to speak out publicly about issues they clearly believe in?
My experience speaks to a larger trend of conflict avoidance and discomfort. In fact, a 2021 study found that 74% of respondents They said they were afraid to speak openly about political and social issues. Perhaps three-quarters of us derived the wrong message from Hamilton’s advice to “talk less, smile more.”
In social communication research, this combined fear is called the “spiral of silence.” It was first invented by Elizabeth Noel Neumann in 1974. explain “Guidance mechanism guides” [to] Expressing opinions in public creates an irrational feeling of isolation. ” In other words, the spiral of silence is why you don’t get angry when your uncle makes an insensitive joke at Thanksgiving dinner.
In an increasingly polarized political climate, it feels safe to remain silent. If we don’t keep our heads down, we risk incurring the wrath of naysayers, outcasts, and regrets. All valid concerns. I wish there had been an independent student group organizing moderate events to allay these fears with rational, evidence-based arguments.
Oh, wait…there it is.
At the top of the Bill of Rights is the First Amendment, which protects the right to free speech and this newspaper itself. Making full use of this right is essential to a stable and successful democracy. Speech ended wars, inspired generations, and galvanized revolutions. Please ask if you are interested.
However, just as important as speaking is listening. Look for and listen to opposing views. I think this shows that our people are as passionately committed to good as you are. Sure, their rebuttals may make you uncomfortable, but they may also sway you. And even if they aren’t and you’re convinced you’re “right,” you can walk away with a better understanding of how they’re “wrong.”
It’s not enough to mindlessly retweet or share your Instagram stories. Voting on Election Day is the most important tool of democracy. Still, dialogue and citizen engagement influence its choices throughout the year.Taking action, marching in protest, speaking in debates is called political movement There’s a reason.
If you want to start having these difficult conversations yourself, here are some tips. 26% felt no fear.
- Please be safe. Conveys mutual respect for others and their opinions.
- Be curious. Try to understand and ask questions about other worldviews.
- Start with facts, not judgments or opinions. Please keep it constructive.
- Be skeptical of your own opinions. Be humble and allow new insights to emerge.
- Own the right to your opinion. Rather than relying on experts, politicians, or friends to determine your beliefs, make them your own.
Democracy must not collapse under a cacophony of silence. Share your thoughts out loud at dinners, events, and even his Lantern opinion pieces. I’m willing to listen, even if it means I’m wrong.