Description
Book SynopsisIn 1908, a remarkable direction in community learning began in Boston and spread across the country, becoming the Open Forum lecture movement. These locally planned, trans-denominational lectures, followed by periods for questions, were characterized as the striking of mind upon mind.This study recovers the movement and shows what can be applied to our time. George W. Coleman brought a deep commitment to free speech in developing the Forum and Mary Caroline Crawford was essential in implementing it. Understanding this initiative broadens our awareness of personal and community courage and democratic planning. We can regain this informed, reflective, respectful approach, and achieve an America to bea democracy in the making.
Trade ReviewMeyers’ original and exciting investigation [and] deft, nuanced analysis....thoroughly explores the movement’s strengths and weaknesses, providing insights that will be valuable to historians—and to all who seek to develop inclusive solutions to social problems. -- Nancy C. Unger, associate professor of history, Santa Clara University; author,
Fighting Bob La Follette: The Righteous Reformer…[A] clearly-drawn narrative….connect[ing] this non-sectarian, semi-secular movement to the Chautauqua and Lyceum movements of earlier generations. -- Richard D. Brown, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor of History, emeritus, University of Connecticut
I recommend this book highly for students of adult education and for public officials and civic leaders who want a model of public discourse for civil conversation in a time of polarization. -- Harold W. Stubblefield, professor emeritus, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
…A valuable resource…useful not only because it revives this history but also because it illustrates how the past can help to inform the present. The National Issues Forums are certainly a close descendant of this important movement. -- David Mathews, president, Kettering Foundation
…Meyers does more than simply reintroduce an important piece of our civic past; he also presents us with a model for rejuvenating contemporary public life. -- James J. Connolly, director, Center for Middletown Studies; professor of history, Ball State University; author,
An Elusive Unity: Urban Democracy and Machine Politics in Industrializing AmericaThis vivid new window brings forward Mary Caroline Crawford, a woman who shaped progressive public discourse. -- Kathryn Kish Sklar, SUNY Binghamton; author of Florence Kelley and the Nation's Work
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Chapter 1. Perspectives The most marvelous program that ever existed Chapter 2. Beginning We have plans laid already Chapter 3. Structure Helping to mould the Boston of the future Chapter 4. Terre Haute The striking of mind upon mind Chapter 5. Hammond A sturdy core of thinking, fact seeking citizens Chapter 6. Du Bois You have given me new strength and vision Chapter 7. Looking Ahead An America To Be Bibliography
