"One hour, many voices" – the discussion game
The Bonn Institute's discussion game "One hour, many voices" brings different members of our society together at one table. Its central aim is simple: How can we listen to one another better again and constructively engage with different opinions?
Overview of "One hour, many voices"
"One hour, many voices" works like a cooperative board game: Clear rules, concrete questions, and physical materials help structure the discussion.
The game is designed to be used in a wide variety of situations, from a small group with just a few participants around a single table to a large hall with dozens of people seated at many tables. Each table focuses on a specific topic. The discussions are facilitated by moderators who distribute speaking time fairly and ensure that everyone at the table is seen and heard.
"One hour, many voices" is about better understanding different perspectives – not about persuading others that you are right or coming up with perfect solutions.
The game in action
A trio of discussions in central Germany
Shortly before local elections in the central German state of Hessen, the state's public broadcaster, Hessischer Rundfunk, played the discussion game with citizens in Darmstadt, Kassel and Fulda. Interest was enormous: Around 700 people registered for roughly 300 places. Different perspectives came together, were heard, questioned and explored further together — respectfully and as equals.
"One hour, many voices" in Bonn and Cologne
Ahead of the municipal elections in North Rhine-Westphalia in September 2025, the regional bank Sparkasse KölnBonn invited local citizens to two discussion sessions, one in Cologne and one in Bonn. Over the course of the two evenings, a total of 115 people from both cities took part in "One hour, many voices," exchanging views on the issues that matter most to them in their cities.
Participant experiences
How often do 18-year-olds and 80-year-olds actually talk to one another? The format brings people together at one table and encourages them to truly listen to one another. It opens hearts and broadens horizons.
Our discussion game worked well. People responded quickly, respectfully and openly. They were very grateful for the opportunity to take part in such intimate conversation. It's hard to put in words, but the congeniality created a sort of magic in the room that was quite special.
We were ready to try something new without really knowing what it would be like, and it was absolutely worth it!
Frequently asked questions
How is "One hour, many voices" different from other discussion formats?
"One hour, many voices" is not a traditional discussion or debate format. It is not about persuading others, being right or reaching a final outcome. Instead, the focus is on truly listening to one another.
The discussion game creates a clear framework and safe space through fixed ground rules that ensure all participants have equal speaking time and that differences of opinion can be expressed and respectfully tolerated. Carefully designed questions, set time frames and structured phases of conversation foster discussion that is often deeper, calmer and more uniting than conventional conversations, even when the topics are controversial.
How can "One hour, many voices" be implemented?
"One hour, many voices" is designed primarily for media organizations, NGOs, companies and associations, but it can also be played by individuals. The discussion game can be used at private or public events, in education or project work, or to engage with and learn from readers and audiences. The game set includes all the materials needed to facilitate the discussion. The Bonn Institute also provides a comprehensive game manual that explains step by step how to plan, prepare and run "One hour, many voices" for larger events.
How many people can play the game?
One game set includes materials for four to six participants. If your organization or association is planning a larger event with more people, you will need a corresponding number of game sets. The game is played at individual tables. Each table also requires a game moderator.
Who can take on the role of game moderator?
The moderator plays a key role in the game. They guide participants through the entire discussion and ensure that all rules are followed. In principle, anyone can take on this role, as all necessary instructions are included in the game instructions that comes with each set. The Bonn Institute also offers moderation training sessions to prepare potential moderators for the role. If you are interested in this, please get in touch with us.
