In Search of Civility: Confronting Incivility on the College Campus

Americans are troubled by the growing incivility they see in public life and in their interpersonal relationships. The lack of civility is an increasing issue on college campuses, reflecting deep societal problems. "In Search of Civility: Confronting Incivility on the College Campus", explores the timely issue by weaving stories of four college freshmen at a large university with current research on civility issues. The four students encounter civility dilemmas ranging from cheating, plagiarism, and misuse of technology to alcohol, diversity, and peer pressure. They want to do the right thing, but distinguishing between right and wrong sometimes proves to be difficult particularly when their personal values conflict with campus norms. "In Search of Civility" provides relevant context for the complex civility challenges facing students, faculty, and administrators. Colleges can play an important role in instilling civility among their students in their academic and social lives. Civil conduct requires treating others the way one wishes to be treated as well as a sense of duty and responsibility to the community. By raising questions, "In Search of Civility" challenges students to make the connection between the morals and values they claim to hold and the practical implications of those values expressed through acts of civility in every part of their lives. Weeks draws on a wide range of experiences--as teacher of undergraduate and graduate students at George Peabody College, Vanderbilt University, and as legal advisor to colleges throughout the US.