ASPEN CONVERSATIONS

Bridging divides and reducing polarisation through open discussion. Each Conversation will start as a chat between two speakers, who have opposing or differing views on a current or ethical topic. Then the Conversation is informed by a text which participants will be invited to read beforehand, to inform them and also to encourage real dialogue and debate amongst the speakers, and the other guests. Each Conversation will be moderated, to encourage full and focused participation.

Like every Aspen event, these Conversations will be off-the-record, to expand debates beyond the usual realm of media and think-tanks. We will use Aspen Institute’s established text-based approach for breakfast and/or evening discussions with leading thinkers and authors on contemporary social issues that are of paramount importance in the UK. We often call on Aspen’s international network of Fellows to lead, moderate and host these sessions.

Conversations

All Aspen UK events are off-the record, text-based conversations. Participants are encouraged to linger on one topic, often an unconventional one, to achieve depth. They are actively encouraged to seek disagreement, so they can confront their own ideas and values. Everyone involved is encouraged to reflect on their values, ideas and perspectives. All events are professionally moderated.