The document emphasizes the importance of 'smart conversations' that foster growth and understanding across various disciplines without aiming for superiority. It discusses the potential for technology to enhance dialogue but notes that it cannot replace meaningful interactions. The author encourages individuals to embrace challenging conversations, confront biases, and become better citizens through these exchanges.

1. University of Wisconsin, OshKosh
Smart
Conversations
Fall 2014 - Kick off
Hayes H. Stamper
Graphics Technology Director, NA
Orad Inc.
hayess@orad.tv
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2. ❖ Everything I remember from my undergraduate years is the
result of a conversation
❖ The friends I have in my life are only possible because of our
conversations
❖ Navigating life, traveling the world and so on has been
nothing more than one constantly unfolding story with "smart
conversations" serving as the chapters of my life.
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3. "Smart" Conversations
❖ All conversations that lead to growth
and understanding, hopefully
beneficial to all parties are SMART
❖ Are NOT about the superiority of its
participants
❖ Span all disciplines, interest and
walks of life
❖ Have no winner but instead are about
discovery
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4. "Smart" Conversations
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Technology can
facilitate conversation
but it is not a substitute
for meaningful dialog
smrt convoz r
gr8

5. Embrace & Include
❖ What would our world look like
if Social, Political, Religious,
Economic and Racial discourse
adhered to the principles of
smart conversations...
...rather than the oneupmanship "winner takes all" approach of social Darwinism.
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6. The challenge of the
academy
Our World - is?
Rich
Colorful
and Connected...at least it can BE
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7. Making peace
through
conversation
Israel
Israel
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8. The Bridge to the other side
❖ Worldview's
❖ Narrative
❖ Confirmation Bias
❖ Cognitive Dissonance
❖ Dialectic & narrow frameworks
❖ Manufactured Consent
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9. "Smart" Conversations
❖ Have as many smart
conversations as you can
❖ Seek out the conversations that
take you out of your comfort
zone
❖ Be willing to "shatter your jar" in
order to discover new treasures
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10. "Smart" Conversations
Be Aware
Be Sensitive
Be Courageous
BEcome...
a better individual and citizen of the world
Thank You
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