Can polarisation be addressed through community dialogue?

One of the key challenges facing society in the 21st century is increasing polarisation. Multiple examples, including the recent US elections and the Brexit referendum, demonstrate the challenges and potential negative consequences of such divisions in relation to social cohesion.

In recent years, polarisation has also increased as a result of climate action related to mitigation and adaptation, where national and local governments have introduced policies which have divided opinion. An example on our doorstep in Oxford is the introduction of the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods which have divided opinion sharply and exacerbated polarisation in some local communities.

This seminar explores ways in which this growing polarisation can be addressed. Bringing together four speakers who are experts in the field, we will discuss different approaches to this increasingly urgent issue, and suggest ways forward for policy makers and communities, to alleviate tensions and division.