**You must register here: https://american.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4ZxgTFuEbsoHYXP** We see all kinds of apologies on social media, in the news, and in our lives. But what’s a real apology? Is the word “sorry” enough? Who decides? This conversation will examine why people apologize, and what they hope to accomplish by doing so. It will also explore what constitutes a genuine apology and use several current examples from prominent figures in American culture to investigate the elements of authentic apologies. Learning Objectives Explore the different parts of an apology in a discourse; Distinguish between examples of genuine and ingenuine apologies and the role that claiming responsibility plays; and Discuss whether there is an affirmative obligation to apologize, even if it risks relationships with a person or institution;