Civil Discourse Workshop
Ever wonder whether artificial intelligence will complement us, or replace us?
Or if Canada’s policy choices around zoning and affordability?
Join us on January 22nd for a Public Discourse Workshop, in collaboration with the Institute for Liberal Studies to host a session for students to engage in civil discussion (with pizza, nonetheless!)
This event will bring students together in small groups to engage with two pressing policy seminars: how AI is reshaping labour markets, and whether housing affordability is driven by market failure or policy distortion. Guided discussions will encourage participants to exchange ideas respectfully, challenge assumptions, and apply economic reasoning in real time, followed by short writing exercises to sharpen argumentation and clarity.
Whether you’re curious about the future of labour, concerned about housing affordability, or simply interested in practicing economic discourse, this session is designed to discuss pressing issues!
📅 Thursday, January 22nd 2026
⏰ 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📍 University of Calgary | Social Sciences (SS 423)
🎓 Hosted by the Department of Economics
🤝 Sponsored by the Institute for Liberal Studies (will include Pizza and Pop)
🎤 Hosts: Alex Emes & Matt Bufton
Civil Discourse Workshops - Format of the Evening
Group size:
• 10 members per group
Structure:
• 2 discussion questions
• 40 mins per question
Each question includes:
• A guided civil discussion on what members of SUE think about a specific economic issue
• A short writing session to articulate arguments clearly and respectfully
Objective:
To help students practice structured economic reasoning, respectful debate, and concise analytical writing on timely policy questions.
Question 1: Housing Markets
Are housing markets failing, or are policy distortions driving the affordability crisis?
Participants will discuss: (~40m)
• The role of zoning and land-use regulation
• Supply constraints vs demand pressures
• Whether housing should be treated primarily as a market good or a policy priority
Writing Prompt: (~15m)
In 150–200 words, argue whether Canada’s housing affordability crisis reflects market failure or policy failure. Support your position using economic reasoning.
Question 2: AI and Labour Markets
Is artificial intelligence primarily a substitute for labour, or a complement to workers?
Participants will discuss: (~40m)
• Task-based models of technological change
• Productivity and wage effects
• Short-run disruptions vs long-run gains
Writing Prompt: (~15m)
In 150–200 words, assess whether AI poses a net threat or opportunity for labour markets, and explain the conditions under which your conclusion holds.