John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
Stanford University students gathered in Arroyo House for a discussion on political polarization, led by political scientist Didi Kuo. The event took place shortly after the 2024 U.S. presidential election and was part of a series called "Pizza, Politics, and Polarization," organized by ePluribus Stanford.
Kuo, who is affiliated with the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI), engaged students in an interactive conversation about historical forces contributing to polarization in America. Students asked questions about the history of polarization, threats to democracy, and ways to remain politically involved post-election.
Dan Edelstein, co-director of ePluribus Stanford and leader of Stanford’s Civic, Liberal, and Global Education program (COLLEGE), emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for students to discuss contentious issues without directly confronting them. He explained that this approach allows students to explore different perspectives.
Resident fellow Jill Patton highlighted the benefits of having scholars like Kuo visit dorms for discussions. She noted that such events are optional and provide a relaxed environment where students feel free to express their curiosity without academic pressure.
Students like Peter Bennett appreciated the supportive atmosphere and valued conversations with peers about public policy interests. Bennett found the discussion enlightening regarding structural forces affecting politics.
Jonathan Rodden, another participant in the series from Donner House, shared his positive experience with student engagement during these discussions. He observed that students generally avoided hostile debates on controversial topics.
Arroyo resident Stella Vangelis praised Kuo's balanced presentation on polarization and neoliberal policies' impact on economic inequality. Vangelis valued Kuo's open-ended approach that encouraged critical thinking without pushing specific conclusions.
The initiative aims to continue fostering constructive dialogue among students through similar events organized by ePluribus Stanford.
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