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Current Events, Law, Policy and Politics

The "Request Offering" button means you are requesting a spot in that class, and payment is not due at this time. Once the lottery is run, you’ll receive a notification letting you know which classes you were placed into. At that point, you'll be asked to log into your account to view your confirmed classes and submit payment.

Study Group: Abundance, by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson - REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

Fee: $55.00
Sessions: 5 | Days: M
Dates: 11/17/2025 - 12/15/2025
Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Building: Online only
Room:
Instructor: Gerry Lapidus

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.

Study Group: Great Decisions - REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

Fee: $60.00
Sessions: 8 | Days: W
Dates: 9/10/2025 - 12/17/2025
Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Building: Morris Lawrence Building- Washtenaw Community Coll
Room: ML-130
Instructor: Linda Tompkins

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.

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