What's Happening?
Arizona State University (ASU) recently hosted its fourth annual Principled Innovation Fall Convening, focusing on the question: 'What habits help people live together well when they don't agree?' This initiative responds to growing divisions and declining
trust in institutions across the U.S. The convening, held at Mirabella at ASU, featured a keynote by Eric Liu, CEO of Citizen University and author of 'Live Like a Citizen: 8 Ways to Change Your Mindset and Our Country.' Liu emphasized that citizenship is a synthesis of 'power' (understanding how decisions are made) and 'character' (collective habits for holding a pluralistic community together). A panel discussion on 'Building Civic Character Through Community' followed, with experts like Jeffrey Rosen, Francesca Schuler, Eileen Borris, and Joan McGregor stressing the importance of practicing virtues like fairness, tolerance, respect, and humility in civic engagement. The event also included an activity led by Melita Belgrave, showcasing how students act as cultural ambassadors through public art projects.
Why It's Important?
This convening is critically important for addressing the erosion of trust and increasing polarization within American society. By focusing on 'civic character' and the practical habits of living together well despite disagreements, ASU is fostering a proactive approach to strengthening democratic norms. Eric Liu's framework of 'power plus character equals citizenship' provides a tangible model for individuals to engage constructively in their communities. The emphasis on practice, as highlighted by the panelists, underscores that civic virtues are not merely ideals but require active cultivation. This initiative can help bridge divides, promote mutual understanding, and build more resilient communities, which are essential for the long-term health of U.S. democracy. By integrating these principles into university operations and leadership development, ASU is preparing future generations to navigate complex societal challenges with integrity and collaboration.
Beyond the Headlines
The concept of 'Principled Innovation' at ASU extends beyond academic discussions, aiming to embed moral and civic values into the university's operations, teaching, and research. This holistic approach suggests a deeper commitment to shaping not just intellectual capacity but also the ethical and civic dimensions of its students and faculty. The choice to host the event at Mirabella, a retirement community integrated with ASU, highlights an intergenerational aspect of civic learning, where older residents can engage with and contribute to university initiatives. Furthermore, the focus on character formation in training future health professionals, as part of the Nourish to Flourish Studio, indicates a recognition that civic virtues are relevant across all professions and can profoundly impact public service and community well-being. This broader application of civic character suggests a long-term vision for cultivating a more ethical and engaged society.
