I have and I will always work to promote a civil public discourse.

Scholars may contribute their knowledge or insight to public debate on important issues. They may contribute it in a form that is understandable to a policymaker, or even to the public, consistently with their duty of rigorous intellectual honesty. Scholars should not feel constrained to publish only turgid prose in obscure journals. They should not leave the public debate to those who feel no scruples whatever to conform their claims to the evidence.

Throughout my many years of service to the people of North Carolina, I have always tried to treat people from all viewpoints with respect.

For far too long the American public and business sector have kept their silence as civil liberties have been whittled away by statutory and regulatory measures.

Public radio has always been so powerless.

I think the McCain and Lieberman talk about the need for civility in public discourse is right at the core of our mission,