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Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines

Tips for Productive and Enriching Conversation

 

Reason & Rationality equips high school students with the tools to think rigorously about complex questions, separate fact from ideology, and engage in lively intellectual exchange. Our classes are filled with humor, and rooted in relatable discussions. Students sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills and leave with a grasp of the intellectual frameworks that empower them to become confident independent thinkers.

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At Reason & Rationality, we welcome honest, intellectually rigorous conversations on topics that are often avoided in traditional high school settings—politics, religion, ethics, personal values, and more. These discussions can be deeply rewarding but also require maturity, self-awareness, and respect. Everyone involved, students and instructors, shares responsibility for creating an open, thoughtful, and inclusive environment.

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We are committed to fostering dialogue, not debate. The goal is to understand and explore different perspectives, not to win arguments or persuade others of a particular ideology. Our aim is to create not only a “safe space,” but a brave space—where intellectual courage and emotional maturity go hand in hand. 

Guidelines for Discussion

The Reason & Rationality community is built on the belief that respectful disagreement is essential to intellectual growth. We are here to think hard, listen deeply, and learn from one another even when we disagree. 

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Reason & Rationality Core Discussion Values

  • Intellectual Humility: Be open to the idea that your beliefs might be incomplete or even wrong. Listening is not just polite; it’s how we grow.
     

  • Curiosity Over Certainty: Ask questions not to trap or win, but to understand. Approach others with a genuine interest in how they see the world.
     

  • Clarity Over Volume: You don’t have to speak first or the loudest. Take time to gather your thoughts. Silence can be powerful. When used properly, “strategic pauses” can have a powerful impact.
     

  • Communal Understanding and Respect for Identity: Philosophical inquiry asks us to move from personal perspective to public reasoning by offering arguments others can assess without reference to individual identity or experience. This reflects a long-standing philosophical commitment to shared standards of justification. To support that, students should generally refrain from bringing racial, gender, sexual, or political identities or beliefs into discussion, unless clearly necessary to aiding communal understanding. Respectful disagreement on such matters is welcome when relevant.
     

  • Focus creates freedom. In thoughtful philosophical discussion, it is often structure that creates the space for real openness and respect. Our conversations should remain centered on the argument at hand, rather than drifting into a free-form exchange of personal opinions. This discipline ensures that all participants stay in true conversation and can genuinely be heard. Without such focus, even well-meaning attempts at “safe” dialogue can unravel, leading to misunderstanding or discomfort.

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Critique with Care: Challenge ideas rigorously. Avoid turning critique into character judgment. If in doubt, ask a question before making a claim.

Tips for Students

We want Reason & Rationality to be a space where students speak openly and also listen generously. Here are some principles to keep in mind when you engage in discussion:

  • Speak to Understand, Not Just to Persuade: The goal is to explore ideas together, not to "win" an argument. Your role is to contribute thoughtfully and help others feel safe doing the same.
     

  • Help Steer the Conversation Constructively: If things seem off track or overly repetitive, try gently refocusing the group.
     

  • Offer Suggestions When There’s a Stalemate: If a discussion feels stuck, propose a new approach.

“It seems like we both have different facts that inform our perspectives. Maybe we can talk about our underlying values instead since we disagree about the evidence?”

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  • Ask Questions and Clarify: If something doesn’t make sense or is confusing, ask. Rephrasing what you’ve heard is also a powerful way to check understanding.

“Let me see if I can restate your argument…”

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  • Assume Good Intentions: People communicate differently across cultures and personalities. What may come off as rude or off-putting in one culture is completely polite in another. Try to interpret others' words in the most generous way possible.
     

  • Critique Ideas, Not People: Disagreement is welcome; disrespect is not. Challenge positions, not identities.

“I see it differently because…” instead of “That’s a ridiculous thing to say.”

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  • Handle Interruptions Respectfully: If you feel cut off, speak up calmly.

“I really want to hear your perspective—could I just finish my thought first?”

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  • Clarify When Misunderstood: You can always restate your point, or ask others to reflect back what they heard: 

“Let me try to say it another way…”
“Can you tell me what you heard me say? I want to make sure I was clear.”

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  • Express Discomfort Thoughtfully: If something bothers you, it’s okay to say so kindly and clearly. Describe the action, not the person’s intent.

“When you said X, I felt Y.”
“I don’t think that was your intention, but that comment landed in a hard way for me.”

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  • If it feels tense then try a little humor: A light, respectful joke can ease tension and help everyone breathe. Just make sure you're laughing with people, not at them and that the moment calls for it.

Reason & Rationality Code of Conduct

Reason & Rationality programs are built on mutual respect, curiosity, and a shared commitment to learning. To ensure that everyone feels welcome, safe, and inspired, we expect all students and staff to follow the Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines above and adhere to the Code of Conduct below:

Student Behavior Expectations

 

  • Treat all students, instructors and staff with respect and kindness at all times. No bullying, teasing, or discrimination of any kind.

  • Adhere to the Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines at all times. Be engaged and participate actively for your benefit and for the benefit of others.

  • Attend all scheduled classes, extracurricular activities and meals. Show up on time, complete tasks, and follow directions from staff.

  • No phones or other electronic devices permitted during classes, extracurricular activities or meals (staff members permitted to have phones for administrative support coordination only).

  • No leaving campus unless as part of Reason & Rationality led group activity or with approval from a staff member.

  • No leaving the dorm between 10 PM till 8 AM unless with a Reason & Rationality staff member 

  • Be safe. Follow all safety guidelines and avoid risky behavior that could harm yourself or others.

  • Wear Reason & Rationality name badge lanyard at all times. Take responsibility for your own keycard and dorm room key. $50 charge per lost keycard or dorm room key.

  • Non-Academic questions and support requirements to be initially directed by students to the Group Leader in their assigned group. 

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Prohibited Behaviors

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The following are strictly prohibited:

  • Possession or use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or vaping devices

  • Possession of weapons or any dangerous objects

  • Use of inappropriate language, gestures, or behavior (including bullying, slurs, hate speech, or sexual content)

  • Stealing, vandalism, or damaging property

  • Leaving designated areas or group activities without permission

Violation of any of these may result in immediate dismissal from the program at the family’s expense and without refund.

Safety and Supervision

Supervision

  • You’ll be supervised by trained staff during all classes, activities and meals with nearby oversight during free time periods and in the dorms.

  • Always stay in designated areas (classrooms, dorms, activity zones) unless given permission by a Reason & Rationality staff member to leave.

  • Adhere with class and activity attendance check-in and evening dorm check-in procedures.

  • Always inform a staff member before leaving a group space, and check back in when you return.

Emergency Procedures

  • Follow staff instructions during any emergency, such as fire drills or medical situations.

  • Know where emergency exits and meeting points are (we’ll go over this on Day One

  • Report any injuries, illnesses, or unsafe situations to staff right away.

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Health and Wellness

  • Stay hydrated and eat the meals provided.

  • Let staff know about allergies or dietary needs.

  • Partake in the daily physical activities.

  • Get enough rest, and take care of yourself!

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Personal Belongings

  • Label and secure your items.

  • Avoid bringing valuables like expensive electronics or jewelry.

  • Reason & Rationality is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.

Disciplinary Process

We want everyone to thrive here. If a rule is broken, we follow a fair and transparent process:

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Verbal Warning for Minor Infractions

  • A staff member will talk with you about the incident and remind you of the rules and behavior expectations.

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Written Warning for Repeat Minor or a Major Infraction

  • For repeated minor infractions or a more serious infraction, you’ll receive a written warning and parents/guardians may be notified.

  • You may lose privileges like class or extracurricular activities or permission to go off campus.

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Parent/Guardian Meeting

  • If problems continue or the behavior is serious (e.g., bullying, unsafe conduct), we’ll arrange a meeting with your parents/guardians.

  • You may be asked to sign a behavior contract.

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Dismissal from Program

  • If behavior doesn’t improve or is determined to be severe by Reason & Rationality staff (e.g., violence, possession of drugs/weapons, repeated bullying), you may be sent home early at your family’s expense.

  • No refunds will be given in these cases.

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Reporting Issues

If you experience or witness something that concerns you, tell a staff member or Group Leader right away. This includes:

  • Bullying or harassment

  • Unsafe or illegal behavior

  • Medical or emotional concerns

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All staff are trained in student safety and mandated reporting responsibilities.

Culture and Social Norms

Reason & Rationality is a space for reflection, exploration, and connection. We expect all students to help create a respectful, inclusive, and enriching environment.

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Our Shared Values

  • Curiosity: Ask questions, think deeply, and be open to other perspectives.

  • Teamwork: Listen, contribute, and collaborate in a convivial manner.

  • Inclusivity: Welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

  • Respect for Difference: Embrace the diversity of views, values and personalities.

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Digital Etiquette

  • Only use phones/devices during approved personal time (not in class, meals, or group activities).

  • Never take photos/videos of others without their clear permission.

  • Use social media kindly: no drama, no negativity, and no posting about others without consent. Out of respect for privacy, please don’t post anything on another student’s social media—even positive comments—while the program is in session.

 

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Fun Traditions

  • Talent Show - Evening of fun with students, instructors and staff sharing their talents on stage from singing, acting, dance, sports, comedy, magic, etc. 

  • Water Balloon Fight

  • Ice Cream Crawl - go see and taste the best ice creams in the college town area nearby

  • Closing Ceremony - chance to share with parents the incredible learning, growth and fun experiences over the Program.

 

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Packing List

 

Clothing

  • 6–7 casual outfits (shorts/jeans + t-shirts/tops)

  • 1–2 nicer business casual outfits (e.g., sundress, collared shirt, chinos) for guest lectures or group photos

  • 1-2 sets of athletic wear and shoes for outdoor activities

  • 1 light jacket or hoodie (AC indoors and cooler evenings)

  • 1–2 sweaters or long sleeves (layers are key)

  • Pajamas/sleepwear

  • Undergarments and socks (7+ pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers

  • Sandals or flip-flops (for dorm shower use)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Swimsuit

  • Optional: sports coat, tie and dress shoes or nice dress and dress shoes

 

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

  • Deodorant

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Razor/shaving supplies (if applicable)

  • Sunscreen

  • Any necessary feminine hygiene products

  • Medications (with instructions, in original packaging)

 

Academic Supplies:

  • Notebook or journal

  • Pens

  • Printed or digital copies of assigned readings (if applicable)

  • Laptop/tablet (with charger) (not permitted in class but can be used in dorms for reading)

  • Backpack or tote bag

 

Electronics:

  • Phone and charger

  • Laptop and charger

  • Headphones (noise-canceling if preferred)

  • Reusable water bottle

  • ID card and a small amount of cash or debit card

  • Optional: book or card games for free time

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Final Notes

This handbook is your guide to a safe, fun, and unforgettable one-week or two-week experience. If you have questions or need support at any time, please reach out to a staff member—we are here for you.

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Contact Information

If you or your parents/guardians have questions or concerns about these guidelines, please contact Reason & Rationality at info@reasonandrationality.com before the Program begins.

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