The World Around Us
Thinking Ahead:
Global Issues on the Horizon
Frederick Williams, Ph.D.,
consultant to International Atomic Energy Agency
As global citizens, we can look ahead to those issues which, while perhaps not yet in the headlines, need our attention. Understanding more of those issues that come from the changing balance of power, the competition for natural resources, or the struggle of economic development with environmental stewardship allows us to think more deeply about their causes and solutions. This class will also explore the implications of these issues in the role the U.S. could play on the international scene. Expect a mixture of lecture and group discussion as we grapple with these issues before they become the headlines of tomorrow.
9:05 – 9:55am, two-week course
The Iraq War
Janessa Gans, M.A.,
visiting professor of political science
The war in Iraq is the central foreign policy challenge of our time. Through an interactive, participatory format, we will examine the origins, implications, and current issues of the war, touching on the history of Iraq, and U.S. involvement in particular. Through the instructor’s extensive experience in the country, you will also gain a firsthand look at the current Iraqi political leadership, culture, and religious issues.
10:10 – 11:00am, two-week course
Energy Future: Dim or Bright?
Thomas Davidson, M.B.A.,
assistant professor of economics
A major issue clouding our world’s future is how we will meet continually growing demands for energy while at the same time reducing the production of greenhouse gases which contribute to global warming. The United States’ continuing dependence on foreign energy sources and the increasing globalization of the world economy have raised questions about America’s future role in that economy. Will we continue as an economic superpower, or are our best days behind us? This course will examine how these issues are related, explore possible solutions, and conclude by considering whether the world energy challenge represents a threat or an opportunity for the U.S.
11:15am – 12:05pm, one-week course,
offered each week
China: The Next Superpower
John Williams, J.D.,
assistant professor of political science
China has put men into space and set its sights on building a space station on the moon. With the third largest economy and still growing, China is America’s greatest competitor for energy. And, China aims to win the most medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This course looks beyond the headlines to understand how the Chinese view the world. “China: The Next Superpower” will give you the intellectual tools and cultural context to understand and appreciate China. This course is excellent for the serious reader of The Christian Science Monitor, for the person with travel experience to China who still has questions, or for anyone planning an adventure to the “Middle Kingdom.”
11:15am – 12:05pm, two-week course
Race for the White House: 2008
Brian Roberts, A.B.D.,
assistant professor of political science
The 2008 presidential election marks the first time in 80 years that an incumbent president or vice president has not sought the nomination, making this arguably the most wide-open presidential race in our lifetime. The unique nature of this race is already evident. On the campaign finance front, we’ve witnessed record fundraising that will make this the most expensive presidential race in history. Candidates have participated in a record number of primary debates across the country. States jockeyed for earlier primary dates. In some instances, they have butted up against party rules that protected the coveted positions of New Hampshire and Iowa. We’ll consider other dynamics including the use of YouTubegenerated debate questions, instant-text message campaigning, and national nominating infomercials. Finally, we’ll examine data that should provide a hint as to which candidate will emerge victorious in November.
2:15 – 3:05pm, two-week course
The Question of Palestine
Janessa Gans, M.A.,
visiting professor of political science
Have you ever wondered why the Israeli- Palestinian conflict seems so intractable and why “they can’t just get along”? The Holy Land is at the heart of conflict between not only Arabs and Jews, but the Middle East and the West, feeding terrorism and repression. We will take an in-depth look at the conflict, its origins, obstacles to peace, and ramifications of the current impasse through role-play simulations and participatory lectures. You will also get a rare personal look into the Palestinian Territories through stories and accounts of the instructor’s three-month study in the West Bank.
3:20 – 4:10pm, two-week course
This course is full with a waitlist.
