Bloomberg Center for Cities

Disagreeing Better: Research-backed Tools for Navigating Conflict

An event of the Bloomberg Center for Cities

Virtual Registration


11:00 a.m. EST
Virtual

About the Event

Disagreement shows up everywhere—at work, across governmental agencies, within communities, and among peers. When handled well, it can lead to better ideas and stronger relationships; when it’s not, it can stall progress and deepen divides. Grounded in behavioral science and insights from “How to Disagree Better,” this highly interactive virtual session offers research-backed strategies for engaging productively across differences.

Participants will explore why traditional persuasion often falls short, practice skills for cultivating receptiveness, and reflect on how to lead conversations that build understanding—even amid disagreement. Designed for people working in and alongside cities—from city leaders and teams to community partners and students—this session supports more collaborative decision-making, stronger relationships, and a healthier democratic culture.

Virtual event open to all. Registration is requested.

We welcome individuals with accessibility needs to participate in our events. Contact us at events@cities.harvard.edu to request accommodations or if you have questions.

Speakers

Julia Minson

Julia Minson

Professor of Public Policy, Harvard Kennedy School; Bloomberg Center for Cities faculty affiliate

Julia Minson is a Professor of Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and author of “How to Disagree Better.” She is also the founder of Disagreeing Better, LLC.—a behavioral science consulting firm that offers speaking and training on effective management of disagreement and conflict.

As a decision scientist, Julia’s research interests include conflict management, negotiations, and judgment and decision making. Her main line of research addresses the “psychology of disagreement”—how do people engage with opinions, values, and judgments that conflict with their own?

Much of Julia’s research is conducted in collaboration with the graduate and post-doctoral members of Constructive Disagreement Lab (CDL). Julia is also the founder of the Constructive Disagreement Project—a project dedicated to disseminating cutting edge research and developing interventions for professionals in government, education, healthcare, and the media.

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