Beyond Civility in Social Conflict
Dialogue, Critique, and Religious Ethics

Beyond Civility in Social Conflict develops a moral approach to persuasive communication that compellingly brings together effectiveness, integrity, and nonviolence.

Russell P. Johnson (Author)

9781009427210, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 June 2024

360 pages
22.2 x 14.8 x 2.4 cm, 0.58 kg

'Contemporary public discourse is marked by recriminating speech that often prevents the possibility of collaborative struggle. In light of this wider context, Russell Johnson's compelling new book makes a much needed contribution to the field of Christian ethics that is both theoretically persuasive and practically useful. By focusing on the way we speak, not just the words we use, his approach invites deeper reflexivity and intention in our public engagement.' Kyle Lambelet, Emory University

How can one speak and act in ways that overcome entrenched social conflicts? In polarized societies, some insist that the survival of democracy depends on people abiding by rules of civility and mutual respect. Others argue that the political situation is so dire that one's values need to be fought for by any means necessary. Across the political spectrum, people feel like they need to choose between the morality of dialogue and the effectiveness of protest. Beyond Civility in Social Conflict makes an important intervention in this debate. Taking insights from nonviolent direct action, it provides a model for advocacy that is both compassionate and critical. Successful communicators can help their opponents by dismantling the illusions and unjust systems that impede human flourishing and pit people against one another. The final chapter turns specifically to Christian ethics, and what it means to 'love your enemies' by disagreeing with them.

Introduction
1. The three voices in the ethics of communication
2. The rules are broken: dilemmas of restraint in war and social conflict
3. Integral communication
4. Illusions and indirect communication
5. 'Dynamically aggressive': the rhetorical force of nonviolent direct action
6. Sharing the good news: integral communication and Christian theology.

Subject Areas: Religious ethics [HRAM1]