Tory Brown, a designer behind civic games like 'Votes for Women', and Cole Wehrle, known for 'John Company', explore the fascinating interplay of board games and civic engagement. They discuss how games can illuminate historical movements, provoke thoughts on uncomfortable truths, and encourage empathy. From Jenna's insightful reflections on governance in 'John Company' to the community dynamics in 'Cross Bronx Expressway', the conversation highlights how gaming can serve as a powerful tool for education and dialogue around social issues.
Board games like Votes for Women highlight historical civic struggles, encouraging empathy and active engagement in social progress themes.
Cross Bronx Expressway illustrates urban development's socio-economic impacts, fostering discussions about local politics and government decision-making complexities.
Deep dives
The Appeal of Famous Footwear
Famous Footwear provides an attractive selection of the latest styles from popular brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Crocs, catering to children's needs while being budget-friendly for parents. The store offers a 'buy one, get one half off' promotion, encouraging customers to shop locally or online. Additionally, fit experts are available to ensure shoppers find the appropriate size, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Overall, Famous Footwear aims to combine fashionable choices with affordability for back-to-school shopping.
The Intersection of Board Games and Civics
The podcast underscores how board games can serve as a unique platform for exploring civic concepts and social issues, moving beyond traditional gameplay. The speakers share personal reflections on board games, revealing how playing these games encourages players to engage with themes of competition, cooperation, and loss, which are essential components of civil discourse. By participating in these simulations, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of civic processes and history. The idea is that games can provide the experience needed to foster empathy and learning in a way that reading or lectures cannot capture.
Exploring the Suffrage Movement Through Gameplay
Votes for Women is a board game designed to educate players about the American women's suffrage movement, recreating the struggles faced between 1848 and 1920. Players take on roles representing both suffragists and their opposition, emphasizing the real historical tensions that existed during the fight for voting rights. This game aims to engage players in an active understanding of the sacrifices and efforts involved in achieving social progress. Moreover, the game addresses how modern discussions about suffrage remain relevant, reinforcing the idea that the fight for voting rights continues in various forms today.
Civic Lessons from the Cross Bronx Expressway
Cross Bronx Expressway is a board game that delves into the urban development and socio-economic impacts on the South Bronx from 1940 to 2000. Players assume roles as government entities, private businesses, and community members, highlighting the interactions and tensions between these factions. The game challenges players to navigate issues like community vulnerabilities and infrastructure development, generating meaningful discussions about local politics. Through this gameplay, participants can explore the intricacies of government decision-making and its consequences on real communities.
Nick and Hannah both love board games. There I said it. So what are they doing in a Civics 101 episode?
Well, from Student Council and Model UN to CIA intelligence acquisition scenarios, there is a fine line between games and simulation. We learn more about things when we pretend to do them.