Polarized politics have pushed many Americans away their fellow citizens. Pew Research Center reports that Americans' contempt for opposing parties is broader and deeper than any time in recent history. What are we to do?

Professor Michael Goldsby discusses a simple solution: Get off social media and back into the pubs! Unlike social media, face-to-face meetings over a tasty beverage encourage finding common ground and allow us to connect with one another in a more authentic, focused, and empathetic manner. If we are to take the marketplace of ideas seriously as a cornerstone of democracy, then achieving common ground is necessary. So, join us for drinks and do your part to save democracy!

Michael Goldsby is a beer enthusiast and associate professor of philosophy in the School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs at Washington State University. He earned his PhD in the philosophy of science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Michael is also a part of the Columbia FEW Storage Project, a team of researchers testing innovations to ensure food, energy, and water security in the Columbia River Basin throughout the 21st century and beyond.

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp