Oshkosh Civility Project: Truths told with respect result in a more civil society
How do we define civility?
Webster’s dictionary: Politeness, consideration, courtesy.
Google: Courtesy, politeness
“Choosing Civilty” by P.M. Forni, Ph.D., and the book on which the Oshkosh Civility Project is based:
A. Civility is complex.
B. Civility is good.
C. Civility has to do with courtesy, politeness, and good manners.
D. Civility involves ethical behavior.
Conclusion: Civility involves courtesy and politeness, and so much more.
Dr. Forni teaches us to be knowledgeable, to be educated, and to share our thoughts in a constructive manner. This behavior is important to our country and our democracy. Thomas Jefferson taught us that an educated citizenry is a ritual requisite for our survival as a free people.
Through education, we establish truths that guide our behavior in a civil manner. The definition of truth is to be in accordance with correctness, facts and accuracy. Dr. Forni reminds us to respect others’ opinions, time and space. It is OK to express criticism and a different opinion, but do it in a respectful way.
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Rudeness by another is not to be returned. “The powerful combination of self respect and respect for others should make it almost impossible for us to choose incivility, if we manage to remain clearheaded even in challenging situations.” This is a key teaching of Dr. Forni.
In summary: Civility welcomes truth, even though our opinions may differ on the action that should be taken. We need to respect each other through common courtesy and politeness, even though our opinions may differ. This will result in a more civil society, better educated citizens, and lower the level of stress and conflict in our daily lives.
Rick Thiel is a core team member of the Oshkosh Civility Project. Additional information available at OshkoshCivilityProject.org. Financial support may be sent to Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, memo line marked Civility Project, and is appreciated.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh Civility Project touts value of truths told with respect
