A Community Discussion Program
Thoughtful, respectful, and well-informed discussion of the issues that shape our world.
"Democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires the active, informed participation of its citizens."— Program Mission Statement
The Attentive Public brings people together to watch, listen, and discuss — drawing on the best documentary films, lectures, and journalism to anchor conversations on the questions that matter most.
Each session begins with a short film, podcast, or video presentation, followed by a facilitated discussion open to all voices. No expertise required — only a willingness to engage in good faith.
Find a SessionAbout the Program
The Attentive Public is a community discussion program designed to foster thoughtful, respectful, and substantive public conversation. We use high-quality video and audio material — documentaries, lectures, journalism, and podcasts — as a starting point for moderated group discussion.
Topics span artificial intelligence, public policy, history, economics, political philosophy, and the social dimensions of emerging technologies. Sessions are open to community members of all backgrounds and viewpoints.
The program meets at public libraries in towns and cities across Canada and the United States, as well as online, making participation accessible regardless of location. A trained facilitator guides each session to ensure all voices are heard and the conversation remains constructive.
Learn How to Get InvolvedThe health of a democracy rests on citizens who are willing to engage seriously with difficult questions — and to listen as much as they speak.— Program Mission Statement
Discussion Topics
The social, economic, and ethical dimensions of AI — from automation and labor to surveillance, decision-making, and democracy itself.
How laws are made, who they serve, and how citizens can engage more meaningfully with the institutions that shape daily life.
Lessons from history on the fragility and resilience of democratic institutions, social movements, and political change.
Wealth, poverty, labor markets, taxation, and the economic structures that determine opportunity in modern societies.
Social media, misinformation, privacy, and the ways that emerging technologies are reshaping culture, politics, and community.
Foundational questions about justice, rights, freedom, and the social contract — and what they mean for citizenship today.
The Format
Participants receive optional background materials in advance — often a book recommendation, a short article, or a discussion prompt. No homework required; come as you are.
Each session opens with a curated short film, lecture, or podcast segment — typically 20 to 40 minutes. Many sessions are anchored in a book, using an interview or talk with the author as the opening material.
A trained facilitator guides a structured conversation. Questions are open; all perspectives are welcome. Participants who have read the book often bring additional texture to the discussion — but the conversation is designed to be fully rewarding for those coming in fresh.
Sessions close with synthesis and a short list of further reading and viewing — for those who want to keep exploring after the conversation ends.
Many sessions are built around a recently published book, with an author interview or lecture serving as the session's opening material. Reading the book is never required — but for those who arrive having read it, the conversation often goes somewhere richer.
Upcoming Sessions
Central Branch Public Library — 6:30 pm — Room 204
Online via Zoom — 7:00 pm Eastern
Westside Community Centre — 6:00 pm
Northgate Public Library — 6:30 pm — Auditorium
Session listings are illustrative placeholders. Confirmed dates and registration links will appear here as sessions are scheduled.
Venues & Partners
The Attentive Public is designed to complement the civic mission of public institutions. We seek partnerships with venues that share a commitment to informed community engagement.
If your organization is interested in hosting a session — or in co-sponsoring a series — please reach out. We handle facilitation and programming; you provide the space.
Our primary venue partner — an ideal setting for community learning and open discussion.
Recreation centres, cultural organizations, neighbourhood associations, and civic halls.
Colleges, universities, and lifelong learning programs seeking public engagement programming.
Get Involved
Whether you'd like to attend a session, propose a topic, host a discussion at your venue, or volunteer as a facilitator — we'd like to hear from you.
The Attentive Public is a community project, and it grows through the involvement of people who care about informed civic life.