The Mind of the Terrorist: When Hatred is Bred in the Bone
1/13/12
Speaker: Dr. Jerrold Post

Terrorism is a vicious species of psychological warfare, requiring a psychologically sophisticated response based on an understanding of how terrorists think. Dr. Jerrold Post is a pioneer in the study of terrorist psychology. He will discuss the spectrum of terrorism, emphasizing how alienated individuals can be led to the path of suicide terrorism, and the growing danger of radicalization on-line. He will close with a four part strategy for countering terrorism psychologically.

Desparately Seeking 21st Century Energy Security
1/20/12
Speaker: John Hofmeister

Eight consecutive Presidents and nineteen Congresses have promised Americans energy security. None have delivered. Traditional energy sources are under attack, industry is fragmented, and our current system is aging rapidly. We face an energy abyss this decade. We need affordable energy for the 21st Century. John Hofmeister will examine: How do we accomplish our goals?

Is Pakistan Our Ally or Adversary for the End Game in Afghanistan?
1/27/12
Speaker: Dr. Marvin Weinbaum

Dr. Marvin Weinbaum will explore the likely shape of the end game in Afghanistan. He will look at whether Afghan stability can be achieved through counterinsurgency or whether political reconciliation with the Taliban leadership is more realistic. The conflicting strategic goals of the U.S. and Pakistan will be examined. Dr. Weinbaum considers the likely regional consequences of an American disengagement.

How America's Income and Wealth Divide Undermines the Health of Our Communities
2/3/12
Speaker: Chuck Collins

Since the late 1970s, the U.S. has become a more polarized and unequal society. What do these extreme inequalities mean for the health of our economy, democracy and communities? Does the growing concentration of wealth matter? Chuck Collins explores the meaning of these inequalities and prospects for change.

The Economic Equivalent of War?
2/10/12
Speaker: Martin Walker

Europe and the U.S. appear locked into decline while emergent economies grow and the world appears headed for the kind of historic shift in the balance of power that normally comes with a major war. Martin Walker discusses whether this is indeed the fault of Europe and whether the problems can be fixed.

Healthcare Reform and the Future of Medicare
2/17/12
Speaker: Dr. Theodore Marmor

Dr Theodore R. Marmor, an internationally recognized expert in the field of health policy, including management and the law, will examine the healthcare reform issues that have recently occupied center stage in our national political debates, with a discussion of the future of Medicare.

Understanding Cybersecurity Risks
2/24/12
Speaker: Dr. Allan Friedman

An increasing dependence on information technology also leaves our society vulnerable. Yet the increased attention paid to cybersecurity conflates a wide range of issues, from financial fraud to international conflict. Dr. Allan Friedman will examine what is actually at risk, and how existing infrastructures and institutions will deal with new threats.

Climate Change Policies: Many Paths Forward
3/2/12
Speaker: Amb. Paula Dobriansky

Since Kyoto made climate change the focus of unprecedented international attention, various global, regional and domestic forums have emerged with the aim of confronting this urgent issue. Amb. Paula J. Dobriansky will discuss how initiatives, multilateral groups and action-oriented partnerships are crucial in formulating and implementing solutions to this pressing global dilemma.

Republican and Democratic Prescriptions for our Foreign Policy Following the November Elections
3/9/12
Speaker: Jerry Pubantz

Americans are preoccupied with the economy and domestic issues. However, presidents are preeminent in making our foreign policy. Dr. Jerry Pubantz will discuss: With war in Asia, upheaval in the Middle East, and the rising challenge of China, what can we expect over the next four years if President Obama is re-elected or if his Republican opponent should replace him in the Oval Office?

Our Antiquated and Self-Defeating Cuba Policy
3/16/12
Speaker: Dr. Wayne Smith

Times have changed but U.S. policy toward Cuba remains stuck in the past. The U.S. is now virtually the only country not to have full diplomatic and trade relations with the island. Our embargo therefore accomplishes nothing, except to make us look foolish. Wayne Smith will examine this issue.

China: Promise and Challenges of a New World Power
3/23/12
Speaker: Amb. Stapleton Roy

Amb. Stapleton Roy will discuss the current realities and future trajectory of this formidable country of over 1.3 billion inhabitants.

Why Politics No Longer Stops at the Water's Edge and Why It Should
3/30/12
Speaker: Amb. Dennis Jett

Amb Dennis Jett will discuss the influence of domestic politics on foreign policy, the impact of globalization and why these two factors could combine to bring about the demise of America's role as the world's only super power.