Too often, people see collecting public knowledge—seen in our practice as doing “Community Conversations”—as an end to itself. But doing conversations is a tactic—it’s a single tool among many—for gathering public knowledge.
The real power of public knowledge is in what people do with the knowledge they gather. As people gather public knowledge, they should work with all four of the following elements, which can catalyze and create impact, leading to greater civic faith. The power is in using knowledge as an ongoing reference point to align action in the community over time.
The real power of public knowledge is in what people do with the knowledge they gather.
PUBLIC VS. EXPERT KNOWLEDGE
The Institute makes a distinction between “public knowledge” and “expert knowledge.” Both are essential and needed; however, far too often expert knowledge crowds out public knowledge. Being Turned Outward requires that we not only make room for public knowledge but that we actively seek this knowledge so that we can take actions that are rooted in what matters to people.
More Resources
Book: Stepping Forward: A Positive, Practical Path to Transform Our Communities and Our Lives
Book: Unleashed: A Proven Way Communities Can Spread Change and Make Hope Real for All