Life at the I-House
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Global Hour: "Democracy in the Caribbean"
Join us at the spot; where we provide a relaxed setting to exchange views and perspectives about important issues from current affairs. Our discussions are always informal.
When: Thursday, August 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: I-House Study Room
Cost: FREE
Labels: Caribbean, Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Global Hour Tonight!!
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will examine a recent argument regarding why the financial crisis may have occurred. See this link for a video from CBS . Also read these links from the BBC and here
title: Financial Crisis: are snips and snails and puppy dog tails to blame?
DATE: Thursday, April 23, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What do you think of the argument that highly aggressive males dominate the financial/banking world’s decision makers?
a. Is this the case because they are hormone driven as suggested by the video?
2. Do you believe it is the very nature of high finance that makes it more attractive/rewarding to certain males?
3. Are people just people or are men and women different?
4. Do you see other arenas where this debate is taking place or should take place?
a. University faculties
b. Military commanders
c. Elementary school teachers
5. Does the culture of high finance/banking reflect the people who are in it or do the people in it reflect the culture?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will examine a recent argument regarding why the financial crisis may have occurred. See this link for a video from CBS . Also read these links from the BBC and here
title: Financial Crisis: are snips and snails and puppy dog tails to blame?
DATE: Thursday, April 23, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What do you think of the argument that highly aggressive males dominate the financial/banking world’s decision makers?
a. Is this the case because they are hormone driven as suggested by the video?
2. Do you believe it is the very nature of high finance that makes it more attractive/rewarding to certain males?
3. Are people just people or are men and women different?
4. Do you see other arenas where this debate is taking place or should take place?
a. University faculties
b. Military commanders
c. Elementary school teachers
5. Does the culture of high finance/banking reflect the people who are in it or do the people in it reflect the culture?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have a discussion about President Obama’s call for immigration reform by the end of this year.
title: US Immigration reform: Is it the same old song?
DATE: Thursday, April 16, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. President Obama has called for meaningful reform by the end of 2009.
2. Indications are it would follow the health care reform model of getting all stakeholders in the conversation.
3. What do you do with the estimated 10-12 million persons currently in the US who have no legal status to be in the US?
4. What do you think are the greatest threats at the US borders?
a. Illegal entries, smuggling (drugs, people, cash), terrorists, WMDs?
5. Currently the immigration system gives some priority to family reunification.
a. The system is becoming more and more unwieldy and keeping families apart.
b. Should a new focus be on attracting the best and brightest to come to the US?
6. Should serious penalties be imposed on US companies who routinely hire undocumented persons?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have a discussion about President Obama’s call for immigration reform by the end of this year.
title: US Immigration reform: Is it the same old song?
DATE: Thursday, April 16, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. President Obama has called for meaningful reform by the end of 2009.
2. Indications are it would follow the health care reform model of getting all stakeholders in the conversation.
3. What do you do with the estimated 10-12 million persons currently in the US who have no legal status to be in the US?
4. What do you think are the greatest threats at the US borders?
a. Illegal entries, smuggling (drugs, people, cash), terrorists, WMDs?
5. Currently the immigration system gives some priority to family reunification.
a. The system is becoming more and more unwieldy and keeping families apart.
b. Should a new focus be on attracting the best and brightest to come to the US?
6. Should serious penalties be imposed on US companies who routinely hire undocumented persons?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. It is a chance to revisit past discussions and bring up new topics. Below you will find a few news stories we can start with.
title: Open forum
DATE: Thursday, April 2, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Bill on allowing faculty and staff to carry guns on Tennessee campuses.
a. See here
2. More cooperation between US and Russia.
a. See here
3. North Korea and the missile launch.
a. Are there reasons to be concerned?
4. Do you question information from the web?
a. See here
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. It is a chance to revisit past discussions and bring up new topics. Below you will find a few news stories we can start with.
title: Open forum
DATE: Thursday, April 2, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Bill on allowing faculty and staff to carry guns on Tennessee campuses.
a. See here
2. More cooperation between US and Russia.
a. See here
3. North Korea and the missile launch.
a. Are there reasons to be concerned?
4. Do you question information from the web?
a. See here
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. This means participants can follow-up on previous discussions and bring up new topics they would like to discuss. Below you will find some suggested topics as a starting point.
TITLE: open forum
DATE: Thursday, February 12, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Eight babies at once.
a. Should government have a say in how many kids a family can have?
2. Elections in Israel.
3. The Stimulus bill.
4. Lincoln is 200.
a. What do other countries say about him?
5. US and Russia
a. What is going on?
6. Darwin is 200.
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. This means participants can follow-up on previous discussions and bring up new topics they would like to discuss. Below you will find some suggested topics as a starting point.
TITLE: open forum
DATE: Thursday, February 12, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Eight babies at once.
a. Should government have a say in how many kids a family can have?
2. Elections in Israel.
3. The Stimulus bill.
4. Lincoln is 200.
a. What do other countries say about him?
5. US and Russia
a. What is going on?
6. Darwin is 200.
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the UN and its role in the world. A couple of articles can be read for background here and here
title: U.N. Legitimacy: varied views
DATE: Thursday, February 5, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What influence does the UN have in various countries?
a. Developed nations, developing nations, warring nations, international
disasters, economic policy.
2. What functions does the UN serve in the world?
3. What sort of power does the UN wield?
a. Where does that power emanate from
i. General Assembly, Security Council, Subsidiary units within the UN.
4. When you speak of the UN just who are you talking about?
a. Persons, organizations, ideas?
5. If you find fault or flaw with the UN name a couple of ideas you would
suggest to help correct the faults or flaws.
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the UN and its role in the world. A couple of articles can be read for background here and here
title: U.N. Legitimacy: varied views
DATE: Thursday, February 5, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What influence does the UN have in various countries?
a. Developed nations, developing nations, warring nations, international
disasters, economic policy.
2. What functions does the UN serve in the world?
3. What sort of power does the UN wield?
a. Where does that power emanate from
i. General Assembly, Security Council, Subsidiary units within the UN.
4. When you speak of the UN just who are you talking about?
a. Persons, organizations, ideas?
5. If you find fault or flaw with the UN name a couple of ideas you would
suggest to help correct the faults or flaws.
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the recent gains by the government in Sri Lanka. Are there lessons here to be learned in how to undercut and defeat a resistance movement? Can the fall FARC and the Russian handling of Chechnya give insight into how to battle groups such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban? Will the Tamil Tigers, FARC, or the Chechnya resistance movements resurrect themselves?
TITLE: Sri Lanka-Farc-Chechnya: LESSONS in resistance
DATE: Thursday, January 28, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. After 25 years of resistance what happen to the Tamil Tigers that they seem to be facing defeat over the last few weeks?
1. After 25 years of resistance what happen to the Tamil Tigers that they seem to be facing defeat over the last few weeks?
2. Do you see parallels with FARC, Chechnya or another revolutionary movement?
3. Can the US learn something in how we are battling Al-Qaeda and the Taliban?
4. Do you think these revolutionary movements were weakened primarily by internal strife?
5. Do you think such movements are mainly sustained by a few charismatic leaders?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the fundamental role of government and our relationship with government. Many are saying there is a change coming in how government operates. We seem to have a love-hate relationship. We will use the idea of the federal gas tax to examine just what we think and feel the appropriate role of government is and why we think that way.
TITLE: Role of government: ARM’S length or hugs?
DATE: Thursday, January 22, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Who determines the social good?
a. Federal, state and/or local government or individuals?
2. How do you balance how much it costs to fill your gas tank with
a. Reducing pollution, greater oil independence, etc.
3. Should the government use taxes for social engineering?
a. Transfer of wealth, encourage/discourage certain behaviors
4. What do you believe is happening now regarding government’s social engineering?
5. Is it really good/bad government or good/bad people?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the fundamental role of government and our relationship with government. Many are saying there is a change coming in how government operates. We seem to have a love-hate relationship. We will use the idea of the federal gas tax to examine just what we think and feel the appropriate role of government is and why we think that way.
TITLE: Role of government: ARM’S length or hugs?
DATE: Thursday, January 22, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Who determines the social good?
a. Federal, state and/or local government or individuals?
2. How do you balance how much it costs to fill your gas tank with
a. Reducing pollution, greater oil independence, etc.
3. Should the government use taxes for social engineering?
a. Transfer of wealth, encourage/discourage certain behaviors
4. What do you believe is happening now regarding government’s social engineering?
5. Is it really good/bad government or good/bad people?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Global Hour Tonight!
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the history making inauguration of a new U.S. President and what changes are required and possible in American government.
TITLE: All eyes on Us: Inaugural Transitions & Expectations
DATE: Thursday, January 15, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. We will witness to an event that will be in history books 100 years from now.
2. Do you perceive any differences in how this presidential transition is proceeding compared to others?
3. What expectations do you perceive from other nations/areas?
a. China, United Kingdom, EU, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Mexico
4. Has there been a true shift in American politics or was Obama’s election primarily a reaction to the dissatisfaction with the Bush years?
5. How far apart are your hopeful expectations from your acceptable expectations for the new president?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the history making inauguration of a new U.S. President and what changes are required and possible in American government.
TITLE: All eyes on Us: Inaugural Transitions & Expectations
DATE: Thursday, January 15, 2009 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. We will witness to an event that will be in history books 100 years from now.
2. Do you perceive any differences in how this presidential transition is proceeding compared to others?
3. What expectations do you perceive from other nations/areas?
a. China, United Kingdom, EU, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Mexico
4. Has there been a true shift in American politics or was Obama’s election primarily a reaction to the dissatisfaction with the Bush years?
5. How far apart are your hopeful expectations from your acceptable expectations for the new president?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Global Hour:
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Languages: Hard to say “Good-Bye”?
DATE: Thursday, November 20th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This will be the last Global Hour for the Fall 2008 term.
This week in Global Hour we will consider the loss of languages. Some researchers indicate that of the 7000 languages spoken today 50% to 90% of those could be extinct by the end of this century.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What is lost when a language is no longer spoken? a. How do you define a lost/extinct language? b. Can a language be revived once extinct?
2. What is gained by having a few languages widely spoken?
3. Is language evolution different from language extinction?
a. Try reading some Chaucer or the King James translation of the Bible before you answer this. 4. How does language relate to culture? a. Does language preserve culture or change it?
5. Given the trend of globalization do you believe the world is headed to one functional language? a. Can local dialects survive? 6. Should efforts be made to preserve as many languages as possible? a. How can this be done?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Languages: Hard to say “Good-Bye”?
DATE: Thursday, November 20th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This will be the last Global Hour for the Fall 2008 term.
This week in Global Hour we will consider the loss of languages. Some researchers indicate that of the 7000 languages spoken today 50% to 90% of those could be extinct by the end of this century.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What is lost when a language is no longer spoken? a. How do you define a lost/extinct language? b. Can a language be revived once extinct?
2. What is gained by having a few languages widely spoken?
3. Is language evolution different from language extinction?
a. Try reading some Chaucer or the King James translation of the Bible before you answer this. 4. How does language relate to culture? a. Does language preserve culture or change it?
5. Given the trend of globalization do you believe the world is headed to one functional language? a. Can local dialects survive? 6. Should efforts be made to preserve as many languages as possible? a. How can this be done?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Global Hour: New President: (again) Now what?
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: New President: (again) Now what?
DATE: Thursday, November 13th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will continue to examine what we believe are the key issues and challenges that must be addressed in the first 100 days of President Obama. Imagine you are part of the inner circle…how do you advise the new president? Do you shoot for the moon like Kennedy or develop a “New Deal” like FDR? Resources are limited…expectations are high…What do you recommend be top priority?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Is the national financial situation being handled adequately? a. What do you think are the root causes? b. What would you change in the US approach to the situation? c. When do you expect to see a turnaround? i. By the time you graduate?
2. Should the Big 3 US auto makers get a bailout? a. If so what strings do you attach? 3. In general terms where do you spend fewer dollars and where do you spend more?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: New President: (again) Now what?
DATE: Thursday, November 13th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will continue to examine what we believe are the key issues and challenges that must be addressed in the first 100 days of President Obama. Imagine you are part of the inner circle…how do you advise the new president? Do you shoot for the moon like Kennedy or develop a “New Deal” like FDR? Resources are limited…expectations are high…What do you recommend be top priority?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Is the national financial situation being handled adequately? a. What do you think are the root causes? b. What would you change in the US approach to the situation? c. When do you expect to see a turnaround? i. By the time you graduate?
2. Should the Big 3 US auto makers get a bailout? a. If so what strings do you attach? 3. In general terms where do you spend fewer dollars and where do you spend more?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Global Hour: New President: Now what?
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: New President: Now what?
DATE: Thursday, November 6th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will examine what we believe are the key issues and challenges that must be addressed in the first 100 days of President Obama. Imagine you are part of the inner circle…how do you advise the new president? Do you shoot for the moon like Kennedy or develop a “New Deal” like FDR? Resources are limited…expectations are high…What do you recommend be top priority?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What key foreign policy directives must be established? a. What hot spots do you believe will demand attention? i. Iraq, Iran, China, EU, Pakistan? b. Define the administration’s approach to foreign relations? i. Allies and opponents c. Who wins and who loses under the new administration?
2. What key domestic policies must be established first? a. Health care b. Recession issues c. Education
i. Role of federal government 1. Setting national standards or allowing local control?
ii. Research funding 1. Who gets it? a. New technologies, pharmaceuticals, energy d. Infrastructure i. Roads, sewers, rail, ports, airports
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: New President: Now what?
DATE: Thursday, November 6th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will examine what we believe are the key issues and challenges that must be addressed in the first 100 days of President Obama. Imagine you are part of the inner circle…how do you advise the new president? Do you shoot for the moon like Kennedy or develop a “New Deal” like FDR? Resources are limited…expectations are high…What do you recommend be top priority?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What key foreign policy directives must be established? a. What hot spots do you believe will demand attention? i. Iraq, Iran, China, EU, Pakistan? b. Define the administration’s approach to foreign relations? i. Allies and opponents c. Who wins and who loses under the new administration?
2. What key domestic policies must be established first? a. Health care b. Recession issues c. Education
i. Role of federal government 1. Setting national standards or allowing local control?
ii. Research funding 1. Who gets it? a. New technologies, pharmaceuticals, energy d. Infrastructure i. Roads, sewers, rail, ports, airports
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Global Hour: Incursion into Syria: Good Tactics or Bad Politics?
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Incursion into Syria: Good Tactics or Bad Politics?
DATE: Thursday, October 30th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a discussion regarding the recent incursion into Syria by the US military.
See http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7695169.stm and http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7694528.stm and http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/10/2008102815052252838.html and http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,444199,00.html for some reporting about the incident.
1. Do you feel this kind of action is justified in a war on terror where the enemy is generally not a nation state?
2. Iraq claims ignorance regarding the raid and has protested the use of its territory for such actions.
a. Who do you think the US informed, if anyone, prior to the raid?
3. Hitting an enemy where they feel safe and untouchable is a military tactic as old as warfare.
4. How will this action impact US relations to various middle eastern nations?
a. Other allied nations?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Incursion into Syria: Good Tactics or Bad Politics?
DATE: Thursday, October 30th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a discussion regarding the recent incursion into Syria by the US military.
See http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7695169.stm and http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7694528.stm and http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2008/10/2008102815052252838.html and http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,444199,00.html for some reporting about the incident.
1. Do you feel this kind of action is justified in a war on terror where the enemy is generally not a nation state?
2. Iraq claims ignorance regarding the raid and has protested the use of its territory for such actions.
a. Who do you think the US informed, if anyone, prior to the raid?
3. Hitting an enemy where they feel safe and untouchable is a military tactic as old as warfare.
4. How will this action impact US relations to various middle eastern nations?
a. Other allied nations?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Global Hour: Open Forum
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Open Forum
DATE: Thursday, October 23rd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. Below are some possible topics to address but anyone can introduce a topic or we can revisit a past topic.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. A recent CNN poll indicates about 6 in 10 Americans are frightened and or angry about the direction of the nation.
a. Should the global community be concerned with an angry and frightened America?
2. India has launched a rocket to the moon. a. How does space exploration fit into the next 50 years of your vision of what humanity will be doing?
3. Serbia has received approval from the UN to file with the International Court of Justice for a ruling on the legality of the Kosovo’s secession.
a. Can a court make or unmake a country?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Open Forum
DATE: Thursday, October 23rd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. Below are some possible topics to address but anyone can introduce a topic or we can revisit a past topic.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. A recent CNN poll indicates about 6 in 10 Americans are frightened and or angry about the direction of the nation.
a. Should the global community be concerned with an angry and frightened America?
2. India has launched a rocket to the moon. a. How does space exploration fit into the next 50 years of your vision of what humanity will be doing?
3. Serbia has received approval from the UN to file with the International Court of Justice for a ruling on the legality of the Kosovo’s secession.
a. Can a court make or unmake a country?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Global Hour: Financial Crisis: Media reported or created
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Financial Crisis: Media reported or created
DATE: Thursday, October 16th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a look at the role of media in the current world wide financial situation. Is the media coverage reporting just the story or is it creating the story? Lots of ideas are coming out about how to handle the crisis and how is the media profiling these efforts and the people behind them?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Do you believe that media reporting has been fair, accurate and appropriate regarding the unfolding international financial crisis?
2. Do you see a connection between the financial crisis and the presidential campaigns?
a. Who has benefited the most?3. Do you believe the crisis will go away once the US elections are over?
4. Media reports trillions of dollars have been lost in the last few weeks.
a. Where did go? b. Was it real money?
5. Why was the media not blowing the whistle on their identified sources of the crisis before the crisis hit? a. Government b. Financial institutions
6. Is the free press serving the same role today as when the idea of a free press was enshrined in the Bill of Rights?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: Financial Crisis: Media reported or created
DATE: Thursday, October 16th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a look at the role of media in the current world wide financial situation. Is the media coverage reporting just the story or is it creating the story? Lots of ideas are coming out about how to handle the crisis and how is the media profiling these efforts and the people behind them?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Do you believe that media reporting has been fair, accurate and appropriate regarding the unfolding international financial crisis?
2. Do you see a connection between the financial crisis and the presidential campaigns?
a. Who has benefited the most?
4. Media reports trillions of dollars have been lost in the last few weeks.
a. Where did go? b. Was it real money?
5. Why was the media not blowing the whistle on their identified sources of the crisis before the crisis hit? a. Government b. Financial institutions
6. Is the free press serving the same role today as when the idea of a free press was enshrined in the Bill of Rights?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Global Hour: European Crossroads: changes in tolerance?
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: European Crossroads: changes in tolerance?
DATE: Thursday, October 2nd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a look at a recent PEW survey of Europeans and their favorable or unfavorable view of Jews and Muslims. See http://pewglobal.org/reports/display.php?ReportID=262 for a summary of the report. In general people in the countries surveyed showed an increasing unfavorable view of Jews and Muslims. The report also addresses some views terrorism, Islamic extremism, and suicide bombing.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What is behind the rise in unfavorable views? a. Social, economic, and political
b. Great Britain is the one surveyed European nation where unfavorable views seemed to hold steady.
2. How do you think people in Europe go about identifying Jews and Muslims?
3. Is the survey reflecting religious intolerance or racial/ethnic intolerance?
4. There appears to be a growing concern among Muslims about Islamic extremism.
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: European Crossroads: changes in tolerance?
DATE: Thursday, October 2nd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have a look at a recent PEW survey of Europeans and their favorable or unfavorable view of Jews and Muslims. See http://pewglobal.org/reports/display.php?ReportID=262 for a summary of the report. In general people in the countries surveyed showed an increasing unfavorable view of Jews and Muslims. The report also addresses some views terrorism, Islamic extremism, and suicide bombing.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What is behind the rise in unfavorable views? a. Social, economic, and political
b. Great Britain is the one surveyed European nation where unfavorable views seemed to hold steady.
2. How do you think people in Europe go about identifying Jews and Muslims?
3. Is the survey reflecting religious intolerance or racial/ethnic intolerance?
4. There appears to be a growing concern among Muslims about Islamic extremism.
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Global Hour: open forum
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: open forum
DATE: Thursday, September 25th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. The baby formula scare in China. a. Lack of government oversight is an issue in many nations.
b. Is consumer protection a role of government? c. Is the lack of oversight in US financial markets a comparable government failing to the baby formula scare?
2. North Korea appears to be restarting its nuclear program. a. Does a nuclear weapon program in North Korea bother you?
3. Is the current financial situation impacting you? a. Is it really a crisis?
b. Should unhealthy banks and other institutions be allowed to die? c. Is this just a series of bad luck events in an otherwise healthy financial system?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Title: open forum
DATE: Thursday, September 25th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. The baby formula scare in China. a. Lack of government oversight is an issue in many nations.
b. Is consumer protection a role of government? c. Is the lack of oversight in US financial markets a comparable government failing to the baby formula scare?
2. North Korea appears to be restarting its nuclear program. a. Does a nuclear weapon program in North Korea bother you?
3. Is the current financial situation impacting you? a. Is it really a crisis?
b. Should unhealthy banks and other institutions be allowed to die? c. Is this just a series of bad luck events in an otherwise healthy financial system?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Global Hour:Local decisions to global issues
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
title: English Only: Local decisions to global issues
DATE: Thursday, September 18th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will take a look the debate on English being an official language in the US, used as the primary language of instruction in public schools, and the exclusive language of government in eh US at all levels. The current debate in Nashville: http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809110354 will serve as our starting point. We will also address the impact of/on local decisions when we examine the growth of English as the preeminent international language.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Should government business be conducted in English only? a. Federal, state, and local.
2. What accommodations for children who do not speak English or have limited English skills be made by school districts?
a. Should local government be required to pay for those accommodations?
3. How are public school authorities handling this issue in other countries?
4. Are there consequences to not forcing English on immigrants to the US?
a. How are other nations handling the language issue with immigrants?
5. Do you foresee English or some form of English becoming so dominate that local languages will disappear? a. How long would such a process take?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
title: English Only: Local decisions to global issues
DATE: Thursday, September 18th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will take a look the debate on English being an official language in the US, used as the primary language of instruction in public schools, and the exclusive language of government in eh US at all levels. The current debate in Nashville: http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809110354 will serve as our starting point. We will also address the impact of/on local decisions when we examine the growth of English as the preeminent international language.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Should government business be conducted in English only? a. Federal, state, and local.
2. What accommodations for children who do not speak English or have limited English skills be made by school districts?
a. Should local government be required to pay for those accommodations?
3. How are public school authorities handling this issue in other countries?
4. Are there consequences to not forcing English on immigrants to the US?
a. How are other nations handling the language issue with immigrants?
5. Do you foresee English or some form of English becoming so dominate that local languages will disappear? a. How long would such a process take?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Global Hour: 9/11: Seven Years Later
Dear students and scholars,
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
DATE: Thursday, September 11th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at the changes in the world and ourselves since 9/11.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What do you identify as the root causes of terrorism? a. Political, economic, social, and ideological factors that gave rise to what we generally identify as terrorism.
2. How have your views evolved over time? a. In general are these factors eroding with time or are they becoming more prevalent?
b. Any significant changes in how you see terrorism evolving?
3. Looking over a longer term of time say 100 years do you generally feel: a. This too will pass
b. Beginning of significant change in the world
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
DATE: Thursday, September 11th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at the changes in the world and ourselves since 9/11.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What do you identify as the root causes of terrorism? a. Political, economic, social, and ideological factors that gave rise to what we generally identify as terrorism.
2. How have your views evolved over time? a. In general are these factors eroding with time or are they becoming more prevalent?
b. Any significant changes in how you see terrorism evolving?
3. Looking over a longer term of time say 100 years do you generally feel: a. This too will pass
b. Beginning of significant change in the world
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Monday, August 25, 2008
Global Hour
Dear students and scholars,
Note the start time for Fall 08 term is 6:30 P.M.
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at the political, economic, and military resurgence of Russia and what impact that may have on us and the future.
Title: Russia Rising: Has mackinder sunk mahan?
DATE: Thursday, August 28th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Is Russia’s movement in Georgia a first step in regaining dominance in her border regions by brute strength? a. In today’s world with independence movements and autonomous regions is a soviet style political and economic structure feasible?
2. Do you think China is concerned by a resurgent Russia?
3. Does NATO have the political and economic resolve to confront Russia?
4. How does the EU view the current situation with Russia?
5. Do we now clearly have four world powers: USA, China, EU, and Russia?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Note the start time for Fall 08 term is 6:30 P.M.
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at the political, economic, and military resurgence of Russia and what impact that may have on us and the future.
Title: Russia Rising: Has mackinder sunk mahan?
DATE: Thursday, August 28th from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
VENUE: International House
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Is Russia’s movement in Georgia a first step in regaining dominance in her border regions by brute strength? a. In today’s world with independence movements and autonomous regions is a soviet style political and economic structure feasible?
2. Do you think China is concerned by a resurgent Russia?
3. Does NATO have the political and economic resolve to confront Russia?
4. How does the EU view the current situation with Russia?
5. Do we now clearly have four world powers: USA, China, EU, and Russia?
Got an Hour? Join Global Hour!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Monday, July 9, 2007
Global Hour: Pakistan's Standoff
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at Pakistan and the standoff at the Red Mosque. Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. How do you see the standoff in regards to: Musharraf's power and influence? The opposition's power and influence?
2. Should the West (particularly the US) be concerned by how Musharraf deals with this issue?
3. If Musharraf falls could another Iranian style revolution occur?
4. Several Chinese nationals have been kidnapped or murdered in the last few months in Pakistan. What are China's options to protect its nationals in Pakistan?
5. How do you think India is viewing the situation?
Labels: Global Hour, Pakistan
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Thursday, July 5, 2007
Global Hour: Hong Kong, Britain, and Pakistan
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at two or three topics of interest. Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Hong Kong -- 10th anniversary of return to China
2. Terrorism in Great Britain -- New face of terrorism, Doctors; Why London/Glasgow instead of Damascus, Cairo, or Amman?
3. Pakistan -- Confrontation at Red Mosque; Is Musharraf weakening?
Labels: China, England, Global Hour, Hong Kong, Pakistan
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Thursday, June 28, 2007
Global Hour: Open Forum
This week in Global Hour we will have an open forum. Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. North Korea appears to be cooperating with nuclear inspections. Is this a step forward?
2. New PM for Great Britain. Are changes coming?
3. Turkish general requests permission to undertake operations in Iraq.
4. Is a political showdown coming on US policy in Iraq?
Global Hour is a weekly program. Join us Thursday, June 28, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.
1. North Korea appears to be cooperating with nuclear inspections. Is this a step forward?
2. New PM for Great Britain. Are changes coming?
3. Turkish general requests permission to undertake operations in Iraq.
4. Is a political showdown coming on US policy in Iraq?
Global Hour is a weekly program. Join us Thursday, June 28, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Democracy in Africa
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at our thoughts on democracy in Africa. News about the recent elections in Nigeria and Zimbabwe has captured headlines regarding questionable elections.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. In 1975 Freedom House listed 25 African nations as "not free." In 2006 they listed only 14.
2. The Afrobarometer survey lists 6 in 10 Africans as preferring democracy but in 2006 satisfaction with democracy dipped to 45% from 58% in 2001.
3. More and more African nations are experiencing peaceful transitions after elections.
4. What institutions (free press, free speech, independent judiciary, etc.) do you believe are necessary for democracy to flourish?
5. Can we learn something about the establishment of democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan from what we witness in Africa?
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. In 1975 Freedom House listed 25 African nations as "not free." In 2006 they listed only 14.
2. The Afrobarometer survey lists 6 in 10 Africans as preferring democracy but in 2006 satisfaction with democracy dipped to 45% from 58% in 2001.
3. More and more African nations are experiencing peaceful transitions after elections.
4. What institutions (free press, free speech, independent judiciary, etc.) do you believe are necessary for democracy to flourish?
5. Can we learn something about the establishment of democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan from what we witness in Africa?
Labels: Africa, Global Hour
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Thursday, April 19, 2007
Rethinking the Costs of Free Trade
Note: We will end our discussion in time for people to attend the memorial for the victims at Virginia Tech at the UC at 8:30 PM.
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at our thoughts on free trade. Do you know what you mean when you use the word and do you know what others mean? Free trade will certainly be an issue in the upcoming election campaigns.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What does free trade mean?
2. Do all parties benefit equally in free trade situations?
3. The theories on which free trade was founded are pre-information age. Do those theories still apply?
4. Is it time to start practicing protectionism again? If so what does that mean and how do you implement it?
5. Who wins in free trade and who loses?
6. Do developing nations benefit from free trade with developed nations?
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at our thoughts on free trade. Do you know what you mean when you use the word and do you know what others mean? Free trade will certainly be an issue in the upcoming election campaigns.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. What does free trade mean?
2. Do all parties benefit equally in free trade situations?
3. The theories on which free trade was founded are pre-information age. Do those theories still apply?
4. Is it time to start practicing protectionism again? If so what does that mean and how do you implement it?
5. Who wins in free trade and who loses?
6. Do developing nations benefit from free trade with developed nations?
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, April 12, 2007
The Limits of Free Speech
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at our thinking on freedom of speech. Together we will explore some of the issues surrounding this topic, which is often discussed in controversial stories in the mass media. Some points and questions to ponder:
1. How is freedom of speech perceived in the United States and around the world?
2. How do we define what is appropriate to say… and what might be unacceptable?
3. In some cases it is necessary to have limits on freedom of speech. Do you agree?
4. What lessons can we draw from controversial debates in the mass media?
As always, we will begin with "Global Hour Headlines" from around the world. This brief segment helps begin our dialogue and further illuminates paths on future conversations.
1. How is freedom of speech perceived in the United States and around the world?
2. How do we define what is appropriate to say… and what might be unacceptable?
3. In some cases it is necessary to have limits on freedom of speech. Do you agree?
4. What lessons can we draw from controversial debates in the mass media?
As always, we will begin with "Global Hour Headlines" from around the world. This brief segment helps begin our dialogue and further illuminates paths on future conversations.
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Where do you stand on globalization?
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at globalization. Do you know what you mean when you use the word and do you know what others mean? Globalization has become a buzzword that needs to be explored.
Some points and questions to Ponder:
1. Globalization is used to explain everything from hunger to cultural decay to global warming.
2. Globalization is used to explain everything from increased trade to longer life spans to a growing global awareness.
3. When you think of globalization what assumptions are you making . . . Regarding politics? Regarding economics? Regarding culture? Regarding whether it is fundamentally good or bad?
4. What questions should we be asking when someone uses the term globalization?
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
Everyone is invited to attend!
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Where public safety and religious practice collide
This week in Global Hour we will look at a growing trend in the European Union to ban or restrict wearing full face veils in public schools.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Britain is the latest nation in the European Union to formally ban full face veils in public schools. It is still up to the local school authorities to decide.
2. When people immigrate, how much of their cultural practice should be left behind?
3. Do you see a difference between those who are immigrating and those who are visiting for business or pleasure regarding bans on veils? France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and Netherlands all have some form of restriction. Other nations are debating the issue.
4. Can you name circumstances under which you would agree that a ban is appropriate?
5. Is it appropriate that women when visiting a nation be required to adopt a practice such as a veil for women? If Nancy Pelosi visited Iran or Saudi Arabia, should she veil herself in deference to local customs and laws?
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, March 8, 2007
China's Position in the World
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at our thoughts on China and what we think the future holds for that nation.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. China has recently announced a 19% increase in military spending for this year. Like most nations this figure is likely short of the real figure. Just who would attack them?
2. China has extended her economic and political influence abroad. Do you know where? Is an expanded military influence next?
3. About half of Chinese speak the national language. Should they force a move toward one language?
4. The recent market downturn. Does it show a fundamental weakness? Does China operate fairly in world trade?
5. Who do you consider China’s allies?
6. What will become of Taiwan?
7. China recently announced an increased space program.
Labels: China, Global Hour
• • •
Thursday, March 1, 2007
The Current Situation with Iran
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will take a look at the current situation with Iran. A couple of interesting stories have been in the press lately.
1. It appears the US has agreed to sit at a regional conference called by Iraq and attended by Syria and Iran. Could this signal a change in US policy?
2. There may be signs that President Ahmadinejad may have been weakened by internal strife. Economy not growing fast enough.
3. China has huge contracts for natural gas to be imported from Iran. China’s exports to Iran have grown dramatically.
4. Russia is a major exporter to Iran.
5. Can Iran be trusted on: Being a regional player that plays fair? Keeping its word on nuclear weapons?
Labels: Global Hour, Iran
• • •
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Child Soldiers: Who, Where, and When
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions.
This week in Global Hour we will talk about the welfare of children in the world. Specifically we will address the use of child soldiers.
Some Points and Questions to Ponder:
1. Most estimates run about 300,000 but some go as high as 1,000,000.
2. Compared to starvation and disease as killers of children how does the use of child soldiers compare?
3. What can be done when child soldiers are used by: A nation state? An opposition force (i.e. a rebel army)? A criminal cartel/gang?
4. Do you see a difference in how North Korea (N.K. is not alone in this practice) has used its children to promote its political position and the active use of child soldiers? Allegedly food and medicine meant for families has been diverted to the military.
5. How young is too young to fight?
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
Monday, January 1, 2007
Global Hour
Global Hour is a weekly program of informal discussion that covers a wide range of topics. It is committed to facilitating the exchange of views and perspectives within a relaxed setting, while engaging important issues that highlight global and human conditions. Global Hour meets at the International House on Thursdays at 6:30 pm.
See pictures of past Global Hours.
Labels: Global Hour
• • •
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