I was glad to see that Katie Couric jumped in on the problem of uncivil political discourse on her first news show last night. Great start … because Katie’s acumen for tone has taken her to the top.
By the way … why was more fuss made about the fact that cameras took off a few pounds, than about the thoughtful news stories she brought. As I see it, Katie models communication at its best and we could likely all take a few pointers from her tone…. She often goes underneath a story the way a coral diver goes under the ocean to see from different angles. Katie’s talents for tone and communication allow her to share news stories with refreshing depths.
Tone is likely the key reason we are not communicating well and moving forward as a nation. Have we simply come to expect less? Hopefully Katie can slow the spin and help us to see
One trend that always surprises me in college level communication classes I teach…. Students inevitably tend to look past their own tone problems…. To point out poorer tone in politicians… parents … and police….
Who can disagree that we find examples in all three … but what about tone acumen in each of us? How could tone change in our day… so that civil discourse could once again show itself as a mark of the human mind? Four questions could help us to move in the direction of tone acumen… the kind that allows for safe and challenging settings where we hear more on both sides of the key issues:
1. How can we build goodwill among others … especially those who disagree?
3. What would it take to help us reflect on increasing charges that Americans are rude?
4. Where could we encourage one another rather than criticize?
5. Would the marks of a brain based peace plan help?
6. What’s the opposite of your idea and how could it add to a deeper discussion?
What do you think of the way we use tone?
Suri Cruise debuts with Katie Couric on CBS News.
Posted by: mr drug rehab | September 6, 2006 12:54 PM | Permalink to Comment