Initiatives
Connecting theory and practice.
The Political Empathy Lab (PEL)
Listening with Heart and Mind
The Political Empathy Lab (PEL) seeks to create a repertoire of approaches designed to integrate the emotional and cognitive pieces necessary during dialogue across difference. Political Empathy Lab also functions as a “gym” so students can regularly exercise these practices around dialogue and understanding.
The Red & Blue Exchange
Promoting collaborative dialogue.
Funded by the Gamba family, RBX is a core initiative of the SNF Paideia Program. RBX promotes the robust expression of divergent views and provides a form for the civil discourse critical to a healthy democratic society. Through a speaker series RBX pursues transformative dialogue and the discovery of common ground.
Public Interest Technology University Network
Growing a new generation.
The Public Interest Technology University Network (PIT-UN), of which Penn is a member, is a partnership that fosters collaboration between universities and colleges committed to building the nascent field of public interest technology and growing a new generation of civic-minded technologists.
SNF Paideia Ambassador Program
A Cross-Campus Initiative
The SNF Paideia Ambassador Program envisions a more connected, collaborative, and civically engaged Penn community by empowering student leaders to bridge departments, foster dialogue, and promote personal and collective growth through cross-campus partnerships and inclusive leadership development.
What Our Students Are Saying
I believe the SNF Paideia team exemplifies innovative civic education through a deep commitment to integrative learning, mentorship, and inclusion. I want to thank the Program for creating a community that challenges students to go above and beyond, whether supporting West Philadelphia, conducting research abroad, or preparing Fellows for life after Penn.
Read more about the Political Empathy Lab
Political Empathy Lab (PEL) Reflection: Democratic Listening, Proximity and a Purple Flower
Democratic listening is becoming an ever more important part of the study of deliberative democracy. Where past deliberative democratic theorists spent time on the speech act, more attention is now being given to the listening act. What exactly happens when we listen to each other and how does that increase our potential to understand each perspective as citizens in a democracy?
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