Beyond Civility

Beyond Civility: The Competing Obligations of Citizenship is a rigorous political science analysis of civil discourse within a modern democracy. Volume 1 of this study examines how traditional notions of politeness often silence disenfranchised groups and protect existing power structures. By exploring communication and political theory, William Keith and Robert Danisch argue that true civility should focus on maintaining minimal respect in the public sphere rather than mere political comity.

This work of social change and political theory distinguishes between polite speech and the essential requirements of a functioning civil society. The authors analyze how certain standards of courtesy can enable discrimination, identifying specific conditions where uncivil resistance becomes necessary. Beyond Civility provides a nuanced framework for using communication to unite diverse populations, positioning civil discourse as a vital tool for equality and democratic stability.