The Civility Paradox: From Insights to Solutions

People in America see themselves as civil, but they perceive society as increasingly uncivil. IW Group commissioned and sponsored a study focusing on civility and civil discourse in America. They polled 3,000 U.S. residents from all backgrounds, ideologies, races, ethnicities, regions and socio-economic backgrounds.

To further explore this paradox, IW Group, in collaboration with Orangefiery, Two Cents, Prodege and academic partners, recently presented “The Civility Paradox: From Insights to Solutions,” a groundbreaking research initiative that reveals the most pressing contradiction in American society today.

The panel discussion, moderated by Bill Imada, Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Connectivity Officer at IW Group, examined the drivers and consequences of civility’s decline, shared actionable insights on what to do about it and what role, if any, marketers, advertisers, PR practitioners, academics and mental health professionals could play to advance civility and civil discourse in our country.

Panelists included:

• Steve Pacheco, President & CEO, American Advertising Federation
• Carmella Glover, President & CEO, Diversity Action Alliance
• Betsy Emmons, Associate Professor of Advertising and Public Relations, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
• Haruka Kokaze, MA, young adult mental health expert

“The Civility Paradox shows us that Americans deeply value civility and respect, but they are losing confidence that society can deliver it. Two-thirds — 67% — tell us incivility is harming their mental health, and more than half, 57%, admit they silence themselves rather than risk conflict. Yet there is still hope: 42% of Americans believe civility can improve if we act with intention. This is not just about etiquette — it’s about trust, connection, and participation. Advertising, PR, and marketing can lead by example, modeling respect, amplifying listening, and celebrating moments when we are willing to admit we might be wrong. That’s the foundation of restoring both civility and community trust,” said Bill Imada.

Access the full report here.