Conversation Starters

The Right to Bear Arms

The Preamble

Cruel and Unusual Punishment

War Powers

Separation of Powers

The Advice and Consent of the Senate

An Establishment of Religion

Unreasonable Searches and Seizures
 

What are Conversation starters?

Conversation starters are short, easily read text or images that are meant to be thought-provoking. They have been selected to illuminate issues, raise or explore areas of conflict, highlight ideas associated with each Conversation topic, and to foster conversation and ongoing dialogue. Accompanying each starter is a set of focus questions designed to open discussion about the topic and related issues. We have also identified resources specific to each starter designed to provide further information or context. The starters require no preparation or study by participants in advance of the discussion, although the suggested resources might be useful for such purposes.

Who can participate in the program?

We encourage Americans from all walks of life to participate openly in constructive conversations that advance civil discussion. The conversation starters and focus questions are appropriate for middle and high school students and adults.

Note: The views expressed here have not been approved by the House of Delegates or the Board of Governors of the American Bar Association, and accordingly, should not be construed as representing the policy of the American Bar Association, nor do they represent the official position or policies of the ABA Standing Committee on Public Education.