Current Events, Law, Policy and Politics   

In 2025, the United States faces a range of significant challenges. This course will delve into 24 critical topics including GDP, wages, taxes, trade balances, tariffs, the environment, energy, education, healthcare, climate change, immigration, safety, prosperity, personal happiness, and rankings of "best" nations, among others. Using a "Top 10" format, we will provide a quick snapshot of how the U.S. compares to other nations on these important issues. Our analysis is based on data from highly credible and impartial global organizations, offering a comprehensive view of where the U.S. stands relative to other countries. This is the 4th Annual Edition of this program and will feature three interactive discussion breaks. Participants will receive a complete PDF copy of the content in advance to facilitate deeper engagement.

Doug Stowell is a consumer and political polling veteran in both U.S. and EU markets. His career includes Market Research Director for the Xerox Corp., U.S. Clients Director for the U.K. firm NOP, Ltd. in London and Sr. Polling Executive - Wirthlin Worldwide in Washington, D.C. He launched Market Resource Associates, in 2008 and conducts opinion research on global issues today. He is a member of the Furman University Osher Lifelong Learning Group in Greenville, SC and conducts Zoom programs for more than 80 organizations world-wide.

We will read and discuss the title book, which explains how one generation's solutions often become the next generation's problems. In the last few decades, our ability to identify problems has exceeded our ability to solve issues such as climate change, clean energy, affordable housing and poverty – just to name a few. We need to address government and institutions that are not working properly. The authors describe the political, economic and cultural barriers that prevent progress. Many involve liberals not recognizing when government is failing and conservatives not recognizing when government is needed. Klein and Thompson conclude with a path towards the politics of abundance. Please read Chapter 1 for the first session.

Gerry Lapidus has lead book OLLI discussion classes for many years. They utilize books that are full of ideas and are intended to create conversation. He was a product manager at AT&T.

Do you want to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today? Join America's largest discussion program on world affairs, organized by the Foreign Policy Association, in this engaging eight-session series. Together, we’ll explore timely and vital topics that are shaping our world and our society. Upon registering, please obtain a free copy of the Great Decisions Briefing Book at the OLLI office (2401 Plymouth Road, Suite C). Each week, you’ll read the briefing book entry, watch the related video series in class, and engage in discussions on the topic. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to partner with a fellow participant to present one of the topics of your choice. Discussion Topics for 2025:

1. American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads

2. U.S. Changing Leadership of the World Economy

3. U.S.-China Relations

4. India: Between China, the West, and the Global South

5. International Cooperation on Climate Change

6. The Future of NATO and European Security

7. AI and American National Security

8. American Foreign Policy in the Middle East: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead

Linda Tomkins, a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, has enjoyed exploring global issues and has participated in past OLLI Great Decisions offerings.