Or Initiative Launches with Conversation on Radical Pragmatism at Chapman University

Or Initiative Launch Overview

In a time when civil and respectful dialogue is increasingly rare, Chapman University has launched the Or Initiative as a new effort to foster challenging yet constructive conversations on campus. The initiative debuted with a public conversation focused on the idea of “radical pragmatism” and its role in bridging social and political divides.

Purpose and Concept

The Or Initiative is designed to create spaces where participants move beyond rigid “either/or” thinking and explore more nuanced, “both/and” perspectives on complex issues. By emphasizing radical pragmatism, the program encourages curiosity, openness, and a willingness to work with people who hold very different views.

Format of the Launch Conversation

The launch event took the form of a moderated dialogue featuring invited speakers who modeled how to disagree thoughtfully while still seeking shared ground. Attendees were encouraged to ask questions, listen actively, and reflect on how to apply these approaches in their own academic, professional, and personal lives.

Key Themes of Radical Pragmatism

Radical pragmatism, as discussed in the event, centers on practical collaboration rather than ideological purity, prioritizing what helps communities function and flourish. The conversation highlighted how this mindset can lower the emotional temperature of debates and make progress possible even when consensus is imperfect.

Impact on the Chapman Community

Organizers positioned the Or Initiative as a long-term commitment to strengthening a culture of dialogue at Chapman University, not just a one-time event. Future programs are expected to include additional conversations, workshops, and classroom integrations that help students and faculty practice these skills in varied settings.

“Radical pragmatism asks us to stay in the room with each other long enough to find workable paths forward, even when we strongly disagree.”

Author’s summary

This article describes how Chapman University’s Or Initiative uses the idea of radical pragmatism to move campus dialogue past rigid polarization toward more curious, practical, and collaborative conversations.

Chapman Newsroom — 2025-11-25