Can meaningful conversations bridge the divide in a polarized world? In today's episode, we explore the transformative power of radical curiosity with Shira Hoffer, a senior at Harvard University and founder of the Institute for Multipartisan Education. Join host John Tomasi, as they delve into the potential of dialogue in reducing societal hate and fostering understanding.

Shira Hoffer shares her inspirational journey from idealistic student to social entrepreneur, recounting the pivotal experiences that led to the creation of the Hotline for Israel-Palestine. This initiative connects individuals with diverse perspectives in response to the tense climate at Harvard following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel. Shira emphasizes the role of curiosity in addressing complex conflicts and outlines her efforts to encourage open, non-judgmental discourse across contentious societal issues.

In This Episode:

Curiosity as a tool against polarization
Creating dialogue to reduce misunderstandings
Student-led initiatives on curiosity in education
Religious influence on open-mindedness in students

About Shira:

Shira Hoffer is a senior at Harvard College studying Social Studies and Religion, and the founder and Executive Director of the Institute for Multipartisan Education. She served on Harvard’s Intellectual Vitality Committee for two years, is a former fellow and research assistant at the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Ethics’ Intercollegiate Civil Disagreement Program, and is a practicing mediator in Massachusetts courts. Her senior thesis explores the contemporary relationship between religious identity and speech behaviors on US college campuses.

Follow Shira on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shira-hoffer/

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