U.S.-German Dialogue in the Post-War Era

Event Details

Professor Friedman addresses the subject of rhetoric and political discourse in the post-war era, discussing the contribution that an individual can make to the understanding between different civilizations. Beginning with a quick glance on rhetoric in the preceding eras, the speaker moves onto discussing the importance of an a priori approach, of grasping the way reality should be modified, and understanding that civilizations seemingly the same are actually different. He discusses the differences between the fixed German philosophy and the American pragmatism, the special attributes of the American Constitution, and the difference between American and European conception and experience of unity. During the questioning time, he discusses the separation between the spiritual and the political, as well as specific strategies for broadening the channels of communication between cultures.