For information on the Great Decisions program click here or contact MIC at 612-625-4421 or mic@umn.edu.
1. UN REFORM
Both its supporters and critics recognize the United Nations as an organization in need of critical changes. Disagreements about intervention in Iraq, the oil-for-food-scandal and management issues have fueled the debate about the UN's ability to take on global challenges. What reforms are needed to make the UN more effective?
2. BRAZIL
After decades of economic volatility, Brazil is finally enjoying steady growth, despite a political scandal surrounding the administration of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Will Brazil continue on course toward stability? What impact will the scandal have on Brazil's economy, on its South American neighbors and on the U.S.?
3. HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE AGE OF TERRORISM
Terrorist attacks in Western nations have forced governments to adopt measures, sometimes controversial, to combat terrorism. While security is a priority for all societies, debate has arisen about how far some of these measures should reach. Can human rights and civil liberties be fully protected in an age of terrorism?
4. THE U.S. AND IRAN
The recent election of Iran's conservative president has raised concern that hardliners will shape policies against U.S. interests. How can the U.S. check Iran's influence in Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries in the region? How will the U.S. and the international community mitigate the crisis over Iran's nuclear ambitions?
5. GLOBAL HEALTH PANDEMICS AND SECURITY
Post 9/11, security and public health authorities are planning for epidemiological disasters as never before. What does that planning encompass, and how effective is it likely to be? What lessons can be learned from reactions to the global AIDS pandemic and its growing impact on the developing world?
6. TURKEY
Turkey has long sought membership in the European Union. Several roadblocks remain, as several European countries are wary of Turkey's candidacy. Could Turkey's membership in the EU help Western relations with the Islamic world? Or could the possible rejection of Turkey cause an even wider divide?
7. ENERGY RESOURCES
Energy supply and consumption have a significant impact on U.S. politics and economy. Is reliance on Middle East oil making the U.S. vulnerable to political influence and economic peril? How will the rapidly increasing consumption of energy by countries like China affect the U.S. and the world?
8. CHINA AND INDIA: PARTNERS OR COMPETITORS?
China and India have emerged on the world stage, having after following different paths toward rapid economic growth. Will China and India work closer together or compete with each other to become major world powers? How will their growth affect the U.S. economy and strategic interests?
Great Decisions briefing books are available for purchase through MIC. MIC also offers discussion group leaders and a directory of local speakers for each topic.
For more information about participating in Great Decisions discussions, starting a group, or purchasing materials, contact MIC at 612.625.4421 or mic@umn.edu.
|
|
|
|
