The Importance of Critical Thinking and Civil Discourse in Today's Polarized World

The Importance of Critical Thinking and Civil Discourse in Today's Polarized World

From Stanford Legal by Stanford Law School

February 5, 2026 · 32 min · Episode 179

About this episode

Robert MacCoun discusses the role of scientific habits in enhancing judgment and fostering civil discourse in a divided society.

Stanford’s Robert MacCoun shows how scientific habits can sharpen judgment and strengthen civil discourse in a polarized society.

People in this episode

Guest: Robert MacCoun

Topics covered

  • critical thinking
  • civil discourse
  • polarization
  • judgment
  • society

Keywords

  • critical thinking
  • civil discourse
  • polarized society
  • judgment
  • scientific habits

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Stanford Law School

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