While it can be easy to look at society and see divisions among race, wealth and political views, the author of a new book says that common public spaces like libraries and parks could serve as tools to bring people back together. We talk to the author about social infrastructure that supports civic life. We also hear from someone who teaches basic home improvement classes to new homeowners. And we take a look at the Trump administration’s move to lower the number of refugees allowed in the U.S. each year.
Featured in this Show
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Trump Administration Admitting Fewer Refugees In The Coming Year
The Trump administration announced plans to reduce the number of refugees allowed in the United States each year to 30,000, the lowest figure since the passage of the Refugee Act in 1980. We talk with an immigration expert about why the rationale for the move and what it means for those feeling war and persecution.
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How Parks, Libraries, And Other Public Spaces May Ease Social Polarization
It may seem as though we’re more polarized than ever before with people divided along political, racial, and cultural lines. But NYU Sociologist Eric Klinenberg argues that public spaces, such as parks and libraries, may hold the key to easing some community tensions. He joins us to talk about his latest book, Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarizations, and the Decline of Civic Life.
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What To Do When You're A New Homeowner But … Less Of A Home Expert
Buying a home doesn’t come with a beginners class to how to do your own plumbing or fix the major flooding in your basement. What happens next if after many Youtube videos and a call to your father still has you feeling a bit uncertain? We talk to a guest from a non-profit that helps new homeowners feel more comfortable in fixing and knowing how to handle home improvement and maintenance by offering classes and assistance.
Episode Credits
- Rob Ferrett Host
- Dean Knetter Producer
- J. Carlisle Larsen Producer
- Natalie Guyette Producer
- Alise Coen Guest
- Eric Klinenberg Guest
- Jason Hafeman Guest
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