This is a quick start guide for new members of Crossing the Divide in which we'll present an overview of how meetings are structured and how you should navigate the website.
Meetings
Each meeting we will discuss a different topic which will be voted for through a google form you have been sent. The meetings will encompass a wide variety of topics, and as always, if you wish to add a topic to the topic list, then send an email to your leader. Each meeting will begin with a broad question about the topic, and as we continue speaking, the questions will become more specific based on where the conversation leads. If any of you have an issue with how the conversation is being held, please reach out to one of the leaders.
Rules
There are a few rules that we should try to follow when discussing politics. These rules are intended to make our discussions more about the free exchange of ideas rather than a shouting match that favors the most disrespectful voices. We have chosen to write them out as principles rather than rules since we have seen that the intent behind a discussion is almost as important as the content discussed in it.
Since our club is centered around discussion, these rules may be contested and edited in the future. If you have any questions or would like to propose an amendment, talk to one of the leaders.
- The Principle of Charity: When approaching a new idea, attempt to understand the idea sympathetically and in its most persuasive form. When you then critique the idea, focus on the argument itself, not the person who said it. Do not attribute bad motives to others’ beliefs that they themselves do not claim to have. When disagreeing, work towards unity and towards keeping the conversation going. This means we do not cancel each other in this class. Rather than “calling out,” we will “call in,” which should be apparent in both the content and tone of our comments.
- The Principle of Sacrifice: Acknowledge the weaknesses in your own arguments and privilege the pursuit of truth over “winning” the argument.
- The Principle of Humility: None of us are infallible and all of us surely hold beliefs that are wrong, though we don’t know which ones. Remember this when discussing ideas with others who hold different views.
Navigation
On our materials page, you will see briefs. Each of these will cover one topic, which we will be discussing throughout the year. They provide a summary of the topic as well as what Democrats and Republicans typically believe. We have also provided an initiatives list that contains some of our future plans. Finally, a big thanks for reading this far; we hope you enjoy your time in Crossing the Divide.