Public Conversations is a remarkable group, enabling and facilitating conversations among people across high and emotional fences. Here are eleven questions they suggest as ways to start a real conversation about Iraq:

1) As you reflect on the state of the world and recent and emerging US policies and actions, what are your biggest concerns?

2) What  troubles  you most about  the course of international events and the role the US has been  playing?  What  do you find reassuring?

3) What are your hopes and fears regarding the outcome of US and/or UN military interventions in Iraq?

4) Can you tell us something about your life experience that will help us understand your views and primary concerns?

5) What is the heart of your concerns related to the situation in the world and possible US responses?

6) Are you aware of any dilemmas, mixed feelings, value conflicts, or uncertainties within your current views?

7) What experience or credible information might shift your current views?

8) What specific events or changes have altered your sense of individual, national, and international “security?” In what way do you feel more “secure?” Less “secure?” What are some specific actions our leaders could take that might increase your sense of security at home and abroad?

9) What actions could the US take that would fit your assessment of risks and your hopes and values?

10) What could the US do regarding Iraq that would make you feel proud to be an American citizen (or to live here)?

11) If you had a half-hour with President Bush, what real (non-rhetorical or loaded) question would you want to ask him?  Why would you pick that question?

You can listen to an NPR piece on Public Conversations here.

Categories: Uncategorized dw