Because the mind is a terrible thing to waste...
Dakota Discussions

Dakota Discussions is not simply another book discussion group. Instead, Dakota Discussions:

• Teaches citizens how to read and understand classic novels. We hope that Shakespeare, Bronte, Dostoyevsky, and Salinger will become familiar names in your town.
• Strengthens critical thinking skills. Great literature increases reasoning and understanding.
  Democracy demands thoughtful and well informed citizens in order to thrive.
• Fosters civil discourse. We are inundated by news sources, yet sadly, very few media outlets give time for thoughtful analysis and respectful debate. Dakota Discussions creates a space that encourages the exchange of ideas, instead of the shouting of opinions.
  

Our facilitators are trained to teach participants to engage the text they are reading on a deeper level. Our goal is to give North Dakotans the tools to analyze great literature within the context of its historical, cultural, moral, and political significance.
Some of the texts may seem difficult or even obscure, but inside their pages you will find the lasting value of wisdom. This is not reading for readings sake, this is reading for knowledge. Almost anyone can breeze through a copy of Twilight or a novel by Stephen King, but reading Hamlet or Jane Eyre requires the reader to think through the book. The good news is that you won’t be doing it alone. You will have a community that is learning right along with you, guided by an approachable and knowledgeable facilitator. This is literally the opportunity of a lifetime. Outside of school, where else would you have the chance to stretch your mind so much?

Participants are not required to read the book or even enter into the discussion in order to participate in Dakota Discussions. If you simply want to come to the lectures and discussions to see what the big deal is, that is just fine. Our hope is that after attending you will be motivated to read and at the very least you will leave with a better understanding of history and culture.
The Dakota Discussions program will transform your life.

Interested in bettering your mind and improving your life? The Dakota Discussions program is free and open to the public. Contact the North Dakota Humanities for more information on how to bring this program to your community.