Fostering healthy discourse in a marketplace of ideas

People sitting in a circle in a gym

UC Berkeley supports the notion of a marketplace of ideas, in which a person can freely engage with and debate any speech they disagree with. A healthy climate can and should include vigorous debate. The goal is to do so civilly and respectfully. The following resources can help you engage in respectful dialogue and bridge across differences.

Take a course

Openness to Opposing Views - Berkeley Changemaker Course

Civil Rights and Open Expression Video Module - UC Berkeley Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) 

Academic credit courses on dialogue across difference

Building Bridges on Campus: Dialogue and Care in Times of Conflict

People sitting at tables in the library

Read or listen

Bridging Differences Playbook(PDF file)(link is external) (The Greater Good Science Center)
Speech and Belonging Resource Guide(link is external) (Othering and Belonging Institute)
Resources to Read, Watch, Listen, Learn, Engage(link is external)(link is external) (Equity and Inclusion)
Having Difficult Conversations(link is external) (People and Culture)
Facilitating a Difficult Conversation(PDF file)(link is external) (Be Well at Work / Employee Assistance)
A Survival Guide for Difficult Conversations(link is external)(link is external) (California Magazine) 

Students pass between classes in Stanley Hall

Connect with university initiatives or organizations

Berkeley Liberty Initiative - Berkeley Social Services

UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement 

Othering and Belonging Institute

Greater Good Science Center - Bridging Differences