Public Discourse

Public Discourse

A vibrant democracy requires vibrant public debate. The public, in order to be truly engaged, requires more than just “information”. It needs compelling and challenging debate on the issues of the day. The Kroeger College Award for Public Discourse recognizes excellence in contributing to the debate and discussion of important political, economic and social issues of our time.

Notwithstanding the vast array of media and fora (multi-channel television, the Internet, etc.) available today for the communication of information and ideas, there is still a need to recognize the care paid to well-constructed content and presentation style.

This award is meant to recognize instances of the spoken and written word which are compelling and which, in their own way, serve as examples to others of the importance and the power of artfully presented exposition and explanation – important factors in the quality of debate in a civic society.

Candidates for this award will be judged on the quality of the writing and the manner of presentation of views in the public arena, be it in the form of one or more speeches, articles, a book or participation in debate.

Without limiting the scope of this award, it could include consideration of public addresses delivered by interest group leaders, issue activists, academics or business executives. It could include speeches or representations by politicians, public servants or issue advocates in legislative assemblies or committees. It could also include written or oral commentary by journalists or other authors of opinion pieces in either print or electronic media.

Public Discourse Award Jury

• Chair: Jodi White
  
  President, The Public Policy Forum