In these polarized times, what does it mean to disagree well? Constructive disagreement is a skill; and it’s one most of us were never taught.
This in-person 4-week course equips participants with skills of empathic intelligence for both listening and speaking, enabling them to pursue meaningful dialogue across differences. Engaging in constructive disagreement and civic activities is crucial for fostering a vibrant community, as well as for effecting the change they want to see.
To get the most out of this course, please plan to attend all 4 sessions. The course will take place in Kendall Square and lunch will be provided. Registration deadline is October 8, 2026.
Course Dates
- Thursday, October 15 (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Thursday, October 22 (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Thursday, October 29 (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Thursday, November 5 (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
Course Weekly Topics
- Why is it hard to disagree well? Brain science behind polarization
- Empathic intelligence: Cognitive, emotional, and sacrificial
- Empathic listening: Skills for understanding another’s perspective
- Empathic speaking: Communicating for connection
Individual Course Registration
- $100 for KSA members
- $250 for non-KSA members
Invoices will be emailed after registration.
Corporate Sponsorships
- Silver: $1,000
- includes 4 individual course registrations, plus recognition on all program materials
- includes 4 individual course registrations, plus recognition on all program materials
- Gold: $2,500
- includes 12 individual course registrations, plus recognition on all program materials
Email Kendra Foley at kendra@kendallsquare.org to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Learn about course facilitator, Nathan Barzci.
Nathan Barczi is Associate Director & Senior Theologian for the Octet Collaborative at MIT, Associate Pastor at Christ the King Church in Newton, Mass., and a Senior Fellow of the Center for Pastor Theologians. Prior to serving in full-time vocational ministry, he was an economic consultant for The Brattle Group and an assistant economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. He holds a PhD in theology from the University of Nottingham and a PhD in economics from MIT. He did his undergraduate work at Stanford University in his native Silicon Valley. He lives with his wife and three children in Somerville, Massachusetts.
Questions? Email Kendra Foley at kendra@kendallsquare.org