ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the main, specific practices of radical civility are outlined and explained. These practices are derived from evidence-based research in the field of communication studies. They represent a synthesis of communication scholarship that has both pragmatic and moral value. Nine practices are described, and examples of each are given. These nine practices work inside the kind of process explained in Part 3 and are modes of enacting the kinds of principles described in Part 2. This chapter, then, puts theory into action with an attention to the most local, specific, interpersonal communication practices that citizens would need when living in a democracy. These practices are not complex, but they can be hard to use in difficult circumstances. They include starting conversations from a position of humble inquiry, seeking to understand and not defeat, acting as a relationship crossing guard, finding pleasure in connection and not anger, using face-saving and repair work, staying specific and local, focusing on conversation drivers not blockers, privileging stories of mutual understanding, and using full, careful arguments.
