The Center for Social Justice hosted sociologist and civic entrepreneur Paul Lachelier for a conversation about democracy on Thursday, October 3 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Democracy: the word is now common in American and even international politics as democratic governments feel threatened by various ’isms: populism, nationalism, fascism, authoritarianism. But what is democracy? What is threatening it? What can people do to strengthen it?
Lachelier offers uncommon thoughts to challenge common ways of thinking about democracy – ways that aggravate problems, create blind spots, sow division, and undermine Americans’ ability to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Drawing on his experience as a sociologist and founder of Learning Life, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit widening participation in democracy and diplomacy, Lachelier’s uncommon thoughts instead outline a new citizenship for a safer, more caring world.
The event is included below for your viewing.
Paul Lachelier is a civic entrepreneur, sociologist, and founder and director of Learning Life, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit developing inclusive learning communities to widen and deepen participation in democracy and diplomacy. Before founding Learning Life in 2012, Lachelier taught at Stetson University, Harvard University, Tufts University, and the University of Wisconsin. He earned a BA in sociology from Georgetown University, and an MA and PhD in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His writing, research and programmatic work focus on democracy, diplomacy, citizen engagement, and education.
