“Is Civil Discourse Dead?” A Discussion with Cornel West and Robert George. Dr. Cornel West and Dr. Robert George, described by multiple national media outlets as the “ideological odd couple,” discuss the importance of civil discourse in this era of polarization. Leftist West and conservative George are friends who teach together and travel the country to demonstrate their commitment to free speech. They explore their opposing views on several policy areas, respectfully disagreeing as well as finding common ground.