Henry Thomson, associate professor for School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University, said addressing differing views requires considering the basic premises guiding others’ reasoning to foster mutual respect in debate.
“So instead of thinking about the conclusions that people are reaching and why you disagree with them,” said Thomson. “Ask yourself, what are the fundamental assumptions that these people are reasoning from. Why do they get to the conclusion that they do.”
Thomson made his remarks during a Grand Canyon Times podcast episode with host Leyla Gulen, where he addressed campus polarization and free speech. According to Thomson, “So instead of thinking about the conclusions that people are reaching and why you disagree with them (…) Ask yourself, what are the fundamental assumptions that these people are reasoning from (…) Why do they get to the conclusion that they do.” According to the podcast episode, he suggested shifting focus from conclusions to assumptions as a way to engage thoughtfully. The discussion also covered university culture changes and drew from Thomson’s international experience.
The issue of polarization on campuses has been a topic of ongoing concern. Arizona State University’s School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership promotes civil discourse through events focused on polarization. Forums hosted by the school encourage respectful dialogue amid divisions, aligning with traditional debate values.
Nationwide trends reflect growing divides over higher education’s role in public debate. A 2019 Pew Research Center survey found that 72% of Republicans view colleges negatively, citing concerns over free speech restrictions. The survey reported that conservatives perceive campuses as limiting open debate, while liberal respondents held contrasting views.
Globally, social media platforms have contributed to increased polarization by reinforcing echo chambers. <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/01/social-media-polarization-davos23′>A 2023 World Economic Forum report said that anonymity online reduces accountability and hinders reasoned exchanges across differing perspectives.
Thomson’s background includes studies at universities in Wellington, Tübingen, Berlin, and Minnesota. He previously held a postdoctoral fellowship at Nuffield College, Oxford before joining Arizona State University. His work examines economic development and regimes.
