Why do political arguments so often feel like speaking entirely different languages? 

The Heterodox Academy (HxA) Campus Chapter at McMaster University invites you to participate in an insightful, interdisciplinary hybrid webinar exploring how literature can help us decode the deep-seated moral frameworks that divide liberals (democrats) and conservatives. 

By applying Jonathan Haidt’s Moral Foundations Theory to Miguel Delibes’ classic novel Five Hours with Mario, this talk between Dr. Ewelina Topolska, PhD, Prof. Jeffery Donaldson (McMaster University) and Prof. Dawid Koloszyc, (Vanier College) demonstrates how narrative fiction brings abstract psychological concepts to life. Through the tense marital dynamic between Mario—a progressive idealist—and Carmen—astaunch traditionalist—we witness a vivid clash of fundamentally different worldviews. While liberal morality often centres primarily on principles of Care and Fairness, conservative worldviews draw on a broader matrix that equally weights Loyalty, Authority, and Sanctity. Through Delibes' rich characterization, we see how these psychological foundations dictate everything from views on social justice and authority to everyday family life.

When: Wednesday, September 16 at 10:00-11:45 AM ET

Where: McMaster University - Wilson Building Community Room LRW1003 and online via Zoom

To access via Zoom: 

https://mcmaster.zoom.us/j/91265955811 

MeetingID:91265955811 

Passcode:214476