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The Institute for Civility in Government is a non-profit organization that works to reduce polarization in society. Through educational programs and membership, the Institute aims to build civility in a society that increasingly tilts towards uncivil speech and actions.

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Reclaiming Civility in the Public Square: 10 Rules That Work

“Emerging from an era of strategic divisiveness, this book is like a life preserver thrown to one who is drowning. From the school board to the president, this is the thinking person's user's guide to the American democracy. Don't leave home with it!” Hill Kemp, Author

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Reclaiming Civility in the Public Square is available online from Amazon.com for $12.99.

Our book, Reclaiming Civility in the Public Square – 10 Rules That Work , is a user-friendly guide to how civility in the governing process is possible.  Each rule is illustrated with a true life story.  These stories not only demonstrate how the rule works, but also give evidence that while "civility in government" may sound like an oxymoron to some, there are examples to be found showing civility to be alive and well in the political sphere.

This book lends itself to small group study.  Written in plain language, each of the short chapters invites reflection and conversation about how that rule works in our own lives, and how it can work in our lives in community.  For those who are interested, it would not be difficult to find scripture passages that support each of the rules. The lessons of this book are applicable to everything from our personal conversations in stores, schools and our homes to international diplomacy.  There is encouragement here for each of us to be involved in the governing process is a positive way.

Excerpts

“It is not difficult today to find people who share a concern about the lack of civility in our society in general, and our public discourse in particular.  What is difficult is to find people who believe they can do anything about the degree of civility in our political processes beyond remaining civil themselves. “

“The uncomfortable truth is that if we are to solve the difficult problems we face as a national community, we must act affirmatively and with courage and clarity to reclaim civility in the public square.  Civility is quite simply the glue that holds us together and allows us as citizens of a representative democracy to dialogue with each other.”

Praise for Reclaiming Civility in the Public Square

  • “In this carefully constructed yet easy to absorb book, the authors outline 10 simple, practical steps to help bring us into relationship with each other once again.  I urge you to buy and read this book – and watch your life change.” Sandy Wilder, Host, "Austin Faith Dialogue" TV show
  • “Practical advice to make our nation's politics less harsh and more effective.” David Beckmann, President, Bread for the World
  • “Reclaiming Civility in the Public Square explores a topic whose importance cannot be underestimated.” Loui Dobin, Director, URJ Greene Family Camp
  • “...a useful blueprint for personal action.” Robert E. Biles, PH.D., Professor and Chair of Political Science, Sam Houston State University
  • “Emerging from an era of strategic divisiveness, this book is like a life preserver thrown to one who is drowning.  From the school board to the president, this is the thinking person’s user’s guide to the American democracy.  Don’t leave home with it!” Hill Kemp, Author of Capitol Offense