Argue Papal Style - Intercollegiate Studies Institute

Argue Papal Style

This week marks the return to classes for many of us, as the blissful doldrums of summer have again given way to 8am classes and hyper-caffeination.   Yet among the panic-study-sessions and socialites we encounter conversations—discussions that expose the deep questions and concerns of our generation.  These moments often devolve into childish bickering, or the real divisions are glossed over in favor of an uneasy status-quo, especially when faced with controversial issues such as gay marriage.

It’s time for a change.

It’s time for students to be exemplars, the ones who refuse to blindly follow political mantras, and engage instead with principles—those shadowy forces that steer from afar.  However, the conversation must be reframed in order to reach this level.

In a recent article for Crisis Magazine, Dr. Samuel Gregg discussed the Catholic model of inter-religious dialogue—as exemplified by popes Benedict and Francis—which serves as a wonderful framework for our purposes here.

The Catholic way of dialogue has never implied abandoning key tenets of Catholic faith and morals. The objective is to listen to and talk with others in order to promote the truth that Catholics believe … Sometimes this means Catholics must question their listeners’ beliefs—albeit in a respectful way and after finding a common starting-point for discussion.

Now, apply this concept to college, to students within the conservative movement.  When firmly grounded in principles, such dialogue does not equal pandering, and quietly listening does not signal retreat.  Respectfully allow the other to explain her position, understand it fully.  At the base of fruitful dialogue is the discovery of common ground, and its use as a platform to discuss our tangible differences.  If this understanding can be built on an interpersonal level, perhaps true progress can then be made.

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