Guardian Launches 'Dining Across the Divide' to Foster Debate on UK's Most Contentious Topics
The Guardian is calling on adults across the United Kingdom to participate in its innovative series, Dining Across the Divide, which aims to bridge ideological gaps by bringing together individuals with starkly different viewpoints. This project seeks to explore whether face-to-face conversations can alter perspectives on some of the nation's most polarising issues.
What Issues Are on the Table?
Participants will delve into hot-button topics that spark intense debate, such as the legalisation of drugs, increased defence spending, and the perceived intimidation of flags displayed on lamp-posts. The series encourages discussions on these and other divisive matters, challenging individuals to articulate their stances and potentially sway someone with an opposing view.
The goal is to uncover if engaging with contrary opinions can lead to meaningful change or greater understanding. By facilitating these encounters, the Guardian hopes to shed light on the dynamics of public discourse in today's fragmented society.
How to Get Involved
If you're interested in joining this unique initiative, you can sign up by completing a secure, encrypted form provided by the Guardian. Your responses will remain confidential, with access restricted to Guardian journalists only. Participants must be 18 years or older and can choose to contribute anonymously if preferred.
Upon submission, a journalist may follow up for further details, so providing contact information is encouraged. The data collected will be used exclusively for this feature and deleted once no longer needed, ensuring privacy and compliance with the publication's terms of service and privacy policy.
For those experiencing technical issues with the form, alternative secure contact methods are available through the Guardian's tips guide. This project represents a significant effort to engage the public in constructive dialogue, moving beyond echo chambers to explore the potential for consensus or empathy in an increasingly divided world.
