Research

Improving Discussions of Values – Research Group

Organizers: Dr. Roy Schulman

The IDOV Project (Improving Discussions for Value) addresses one of democracy's most pressing challenges: how to foster meaningful dialogue about morally-laden issues that maintains civic respect and produces real impact for participants. At the heart of this initiative is our multidisciplinary research group, bringing together experts in philosophy, communications, sociology/anthropology, psychology, education, professional debating, and group facilitation to develop a comprehensive theory of effective values-based dialogue. Working in partnership with practitioners who test our hypotheses in real-world settings, our research team is creating both rigorous academic understanding and practical tools for democratic engagement. The ultimate goal is to produce not just scholarly insights but a concrete manual and training program that communities, organizations, and institutions can use to transform how they approach difficult conversations about values, moving beyond polarization toward productive dialogue that strengthens a democratic society while creating meaningful change for those involved.