MSU faculty model the art of civil debate

STARKVILLE, Miss.— On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., Mississippi State University faculty members will gather in Old Main 3320 for a debate, using contemporary political issues to demonstrate for attendees how to engage in respectful, civil discussion. The event, titled the Political Ideology Debate, will highlight a range of political perspectives and the value of constructive discourse on campus.

“This event is designed to highlight four major political ideologies and demonstrate that constructive political discussion is possible even in the face of disagreement,” said Manuel Rodeiro, an assistant professor of philosophy who is organizing the event. “We want to create a space where students, faculty and staff can engage with different perspectives in a respectful, informed setting.”

In response to media criticism about a perceived lack of political diversity on campuses nationwide, Rodeiro said the debate was inspired by the desire to showcase the breadth of perspectives among faculty.

“Our goal is for attendees to witness and engage with a high-level overview of political ideologies and see that balanced, civil discourse is possible,” said Rodeiro, noting he hopes the event will reduce polarization and inspire further conversations on campus.

“We all understand that we’re each representing a specific political position and aim to present it as accurately as possible, so critiques are taken in the spirit of constructive dialogue. As colleagues, we also know and respect one another, which helps maintain balance and civility,” Rodeiro said.

Faculty members participating from the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Political Science and Public Administration include:

• John Bickle, professor of philosophy, representing libertarianism

• Giorgi Lebanidze, assistant teaching professor of philosophy, representing communitarianism

• Manuel Rodeiro, assistant professor of philosophy, representing liberalism

• Brian Shoup, department head and professor of political science, representing conservatism

The discussion will be moderated by Susan Erck, an assistant professor of philosophy.

Each faculty member will defend a specific viewpoint on the political compass, teaching students how to engage with diverse perspectives. Topics will include contemporary political issues, with an opportunity for the audience to ask questions after the moderated discussion.

The debate is open only to MSU students, faculty, and staff, and there is no cost or registration required.

For more information, contact Rodeiro at mrodeiro@philrel.msstate.edu.

For more information about MSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of Philosophy and Religion, or the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, visit www.cas.msstate.edu, www.philosophyandreligion.msstate.edu, or www.pspa.msstate.edu.