Hot Topics Forums
Ground Rules

The purpose of the discussion forums is to explore issues of political or social interest.  Forums can provide a means for members to explore the different arguments that arise from a given issue and come to a better understanding of the diverse perspectives that surround the issue.

Forums can take the following form:

• A potluck supper (1 hour), followed by:
• A discussion of a given question.
  • 1 to 1.5 hours
• Background for discussion:
  • 2 readings, 5-7 pages each.
  • Address the question from opposing perspectives.
  • Thoughtful, philosophical, provocative.
  • Non-vitriolic, non-confrontational, non-emotional.
• Discussion promotes understanding and constructive argument.
  • Participants can forge consensus or "agree to disagree."

• Forums held once per month
• Month prior:
  • Topic determined, moderator designated.
  • Moderator frames question, identifies and distributes readings
    (2-4 weeks prior).
  • Moderator prepares/submits Catalyst (newsletter) announcement.
  • Social Justice Committee members promote as desired.
• During forum:
• Moderator moderates discussion in accordance with established guidelines (below).

1. Everyone gets an opportunity to speak and offer insight or opinion as he/she chooses.
2. Everyone's opinion will be respected. In particular, persons who embrace an opinion contrary to the majority of those attending should be encouraged to offer their insights.
3. Discussions will focus on the question posed. The moderator may need to keep the discussion on topic (although this is discretionary if the group as a whole chooses to "go off on a tangent").
4. Discussions will steer clear of gratuitously confrontational, personal, or vitriolic issues. Things like "Bush-bashing" should be avoided. The moderator may need to steer the conversation away from these things.