Background

Created in fall 2021, Better Arguments at William & Mary is a university-wide initiative that provides students, faculty and staff with a common language to navigate disagreement, strengthen relationships and contribute to a healthy civic culture.

Since its launch, Better Arguments principles have been embedded across the university. All entering undergraduate students are introduced to the principles at New Student Orientation, and more than 70% of faculty and staff have participated in professional development focused on applying the principles in their work. The initiative extends beyond the classroom through workshops, campus programming and partnerships with alumni, families and civic organizations.

Aspen Institute

Better Arguments at William & Mary is grounded in the Aspen Institute’s Better Arguments Project, a national civic initiative designed to help bridge divides and strengthen democratic practice by helping people engage more constructively across differences. The Aspen Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just and equitable society through dialogue, leadership and action.