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The Three Degrees of Why
An interactive workshop experience equipping groups with practical tools and skills to navigate ideological differences, uncover the values and interests behind opposing perspectives, and engage in constructive, civil dialogue, even on the most challenging issues.
Engaging. Transformative. Immediately Applicable.
A Practical, Repeatable Framework for Civil Dialogue!
In today’s polarized climate, conversations often stall at the level of positions—what people believe—without exploring the deeper layers that shape those beliefs. The Three Degrees of Why™ offers a practical framework to help you move beyond surface disagreement, into deeper understanding and constructive dialogue.
These tools will help you explore how beliefs are formed—including the role of lived experiences and the stories we encounter through the wider cultural landscape
As you learn to recognize these deeper layers, you’ll gain practical ways to engage difficult conversations with greater clarity and confidence
The Three Degrees of Why™ Framework
As featured in the University of Pennsylvania's SNF Paideia Program.
The Three Degrees of Why™ guides participants through four stages: Position, Surface Why, Values Why, and Story Why. Each stage moves beyond what someone believes to uncover the deeper reasoning, values, and personal experiences that shape their perspective.
Your Participants will:
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Recognize the deeper layers beneath political positions and what shapes the beliefs we hold.
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Identify the values and stories influencing their own perspectives before examining those of others.
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Practice asking questions that move conversations beyond surface-level disagreement and toward greater understanding.
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Leave with a practical, repeatable framework for approaching difficult conversations with greater curiosity, discernment, and understandin
This workshop is impactful whether there are diverse perspectives present or whether your team is relatively like-minded. It can be conducted with any group of willing and curious participants!
Ready to transform the way your group navigates disagreement?
Are you part of a Faith-based community? Check out our Dignity in the Divide course, designed expecially for churches and small groups.
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