Creating a New Civility

Why are people rude, nasty, and negative? Because, we are told, it works for them. Creating a New Civility makes a strong case that such conduct doesn't work in any lasting way. This timely book discusses how we, as a culture, can move away from negativity and create civility at both the personal and community levels. Using the metaphor of a journey, Joy Marsella proposes a series of practical steps to work toward a greater civility. Although the end of the journey results in the common good, the steps along the way--identity, mindfulness, listening, empathy, and reasoning--are also valuable destinations. Her model gently guides readers to develop their own insights and to integrate them into their daily lives.