Beyond empathy and inclusion: the challenge of listening in democratic deliberation

In: Oxford scholarship online

Abstract

'Beyond Empathy and Inclusion' examines how to achieve democratic rule in large pluralistic societies where citizens are deeply divided. Scudder argues that listening is key; in a democracy, citizens do not have to agree with their political opponents, but they do have to listen to them. Being heard is what ensures we have a say in the laws to which we are held. While listening is admittedly difficult, this text investigates how to motivate citizens to listen seriously, attentively, and humbly, even to those with whom they disagree.