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assemble, communicate, and listen to one another, and a second phase that involved understanding
the process of deliberation.
With respect to conflict, tension, and disagreement, Rostboll (2008) approached such
issues from the perspective of diversity and tolerance, noting that tolerance leads to a form of blind
acceptance in which divergent perspectives are taken without question. This is contrary to the aim
of deliberative democracy and the prospect of generative learning.
Actually, I find the use of toleration as requiring us not to question or discuss the
fundamental views of others misplaced. An intrinsic value of deliberation is that we are treated as
persons capable of responding to and giving reasons. To respect someone is not to accept his views
but rather to discuss them. (Rostboll, 2008, p. 202)
As an example of this, Rostboll (2008) used the term argue when describing conflict and
disagreement among participants, commenting, “arguing with someone cannot be regarded as
limiting freedom but on the contrary is a necessary condition of free opinion formation and mutual
respect” (p. 203). Plato and Aristotle can even agree that arguments for excellent moral character
involves more than a just a simple understanding of good views. Within virtue they required a co-
existence between cognitive and affective elements in having perspective. Aristotle attempts to
explain to desire the good for the others' own sakes ought to turn political institutions that promote
the conditions under which expression and friendship flourish (Homaik, Stanford.edu, 2011).
Intergroup Contact
The premise of intergroup contact is based on the nearly 65-year-old psychology-based
contact hypothesis (Allport, 1954), which posited that situations in which meaningful interactions
between individuals can occur can lead to opportunities for improved relationships (Amir, 1969).
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