Why Should Young People Care About National Discourse?

A Better Way to Talk: Fixing National Discourse for Our Generation

Every election season, more young people grow frustrated with the political system. It feels like those in power—no matter the party—are increasingly out of touch. Many of us want to contribute our ideas, engage in logical discussions, and see real improvements. But the system makes that difficult, and young voices struggle to be heard. Social media, which dominates modern discourse, isn’t helping. Instead of fostering thoughtful discussion, its algorithms are designed for profit—prioritizing engagement and attention over meaningful conversation. The loudest, most divisive voices get amplified, while reasonable perspectives take a backseat. While disagreement is essential to a healthy society, the kind of debate social media encourages is often toxic and alienating. Despite all the noise we see on social media, most of the population feels voiceless, with no real way to participate in meaningful national discussions.

A majority of social media users agree on the divisiveness of social media. A 2021 study by Consumer Reports shows that 60% of people believe that social media fosters division in society because social media’s algorithms prioritize clicks and engagement over genuine discourse. Division sparks engagement–which social media craves–but it leaves most of us voiceless.

And discourse matters. In this election, as in many before, social media’s version of the political climate influences the actual political climate. The voices that gain traction online shape public perception, even when they don’t represent most of us. Too often, destructive, polarizing voices take center stage while thoughtful, constructive ones get drowned out. Young people, who have grown up with social media, see this happening—but many are left wondering if there’s a better way.

Finding a Better Way

If we want meaningful national discourse, we need an alternative to platforms that profit from division. How can we create large-scale discussions that give people space to voice their differing viewpoints, consider the pros and cons, and work toward real solutions?

That’s where EnCiv.org comes in. EnCiv’s upcoming tool, Civil Pursuit, offers a new way to engage in discussions that matter. Inspired by in-person deliberation methods (learn more here), Civil Pursuit is designed to welcome all viewpoints, explore issues in depth, and iterate toward solutions that unite people rather than divide them.

Social media platforms, left unchecked, continue to enrich themselves at the expense of our national unity. While this affects everyone, young people will be the ones dealing with the consequences for years to come.

EnCiv.org is a community-driven, open-source solution that promotes meaningful national discourse and bipartisan dialogue. Join the movement today and help build a future where constructive conversation leads to lasting improvement.