Standard
HS.SP1.1: Evaluate how events and developments were shaped by unique circumstances of time and place as well as broader contexts.

​Learning Target
I  can analyze how the creation of the American Republic was shaped by the unique circumstances of time and place.

Instructions
Listen to the Podcast - Eboo Patel on Collaborating across Differences.
Then answer the questions below for your Guided Notes.

Guided Notes
Listen to the first part of the podcast (00:00–02:44)

• How does Patel define democracy? How does he define diversity?
• Why is religion an especially powerful kind of difference? What do you think Patel means by “matters of ultimate concern”?
• Patel says that in a democracy, people “get to make their personal convictions public.” What might that look like? What are some of the benefits and challenges of living in such a society?

Listen to the second half of the podcast (2:44–8:02) as Patel tells the story of Ruth Messinger’s experiences in Oklahoma in the 1960s.

• Who is Ruth Messinger, and what was she doing in western Oklahoma?
• What were some of the key differences between Messinger and other people in the community where she was working?
• How would you evaluate the approach Messinger took to collaborating with people who had very different beliefs about “fundamental things”? What is gained in her approach? Is anything lost?
• Can you imagine using Messinger’s approach to find allies and work for the common good in your community? What might that look like?