Debate: Nuclear Power & Climate Change

August 26, 2025

8:00-10:00 p.m. (ET)

Register here 

Do we need to invest in increased nuclear energy sources? Nuclear energy has a long history of controversy, as indicated by the common phrase "going nuclear" (a la "going wild"). Some individuals believe that nuclear power is vital to cutting carbon emissions and can, therefore, help us reach global climate goals. Others see too many risks: from radioactive waste to the potential for accidents to high cost. These individuals often argue that reneewable energy sources such as wind power and solar power are better alternatives. Still others question whether climate change is an existential threat at all, arguing that instead of decarbonization we should focus on things such as reliability and national security.

What do you think? Do we need to invest in nuclear power? Join us for this free national debate on the topic – Resolved: Increased nuclear power is necessary to mitigate climate change -- in which all participants from across the ideological spectrum will have an opportunity to speak and ask their questions. Tell us what you have experienced and what you think.

You probably haven’t experienced anything like a Braver Angels Debate. This is a highly structured conversation in which a group of people think together, listen carefully to one another, and allow themselves to be touched and perhaps changed by each other’s ideas. When done well, everyone walks out a little closer to the truth, more aware of the validity in opposing views, and with tighter community relationships.

To learn more about our debates, you can take a look at our quick start guide and this video about the spirit of a Braver Angels Debate. For further information, including to find additional upcoming events or view recordings of some of our past debates, please visit: https://braverangels.org/what-we-do/debates/.

How to Become Politically Anti-fragile

September 4, 2025

7:30-9:30 p.m. (ET)

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Take a deep dive into how colliding worldviews separate us, how our brains trick us into seeing those who disagree with us as enemies, and how these very same brains can create new constructs in which "they" become part of "us." Join us to discuss strategies for gaining emotional control, reframing difficult conversations, and building strength by meeting challenges head-on.

Sponsored by the Chicagoland Braver Angels Alliance.

Workshop: Skills for Disagreeing Better

September 6, 2025

2:00-3:30 p.m. (ET)

Register here 

In this polarized time, we lack basic understanding of why people on the other political side hold their beliefs. We don’t see them as they see themselves–their core values and central concerns–but instead as we choose to see them. We are tempted to regard our own side as principled and the other side as self-interested. When we try to communicate across this gap, we often lack the skills for listening carefully, looking for common ground, and sharing our perspectives in ways that connect rather than create more misunderstanding. 

We can learn to disagree better in polarized times, which means accurately seeing where we differ and where we share common ground.

Debate: Trust the Science

September 11, 2025

8:00-10:00 p.m. (ET)

Register here 

What does it mean to trust the science? This pandemic-era slogan continues to reverberate five years later, as trust in expertise and the institutions that it should inform seems to have wavered.

What do you think? When someone encourages us to trust science, what are they telling us to do? When someone bristles at the suggestion, what is it they're truly objecting to? Join Braver Angels for this free national debate, in which all participants from across the ideological spectrum will have an opportunity to speak and ask their questions. Tell us what you have experienced and what you think.