Great Decisions 2014 is right around the corner. This informative discussion group will begin meeting on
Saturday, Jan. 25 and run until March 1.
Interested participants will meet for six consecutive weeks from 9:30 until 11 a.m. at the Wood County
Senior Center, 305 N. Main St., Bowling Green. During these sessions Bowling Green State University
professors will offer timely information on worldly topics and provide an opportunity for questions and
answers following each discussion.
This series is co-sponsored by the American Association of University Women, Bowling Green Women’s Club,
and the Wood County Committee on Aging.
The presentations are scheduled as follows:
• Saturday, Jan. 25 – Defense Technology by Dr. Stefan Fritsch
From robotic planes to cyber-weapons to 3D printing and human enhancement, new "game-changing"
technologies are moving from science fiction to battlefield reality – all during an age of fiscal
austerity. What are the "killer applications" of the 21st-century battlefield, and in turn,
what are the issues that the U.S. must navigate in adapting to them?
• Saturday, Feb. 1 – China’s Foreign Policy by Drs. Wally and Diane Pretzer
China has gone to great lengths to emphasize the "peaceful" nature of its meteoric rise. Yet
few dispute that China is the dominant regional power in Asia – and in recent years Beijing began to
flex its muscles regionally in order to advance its strategic interests. What does the rapid rise of
this new superpower mean for other countries in the region, and are there potential points of conflict
with the U.S.?
• Saturday, Feb. 8 – Energy Independence by Dr. Andy Kear
Energy independence, by taking the bargaining chip of oil dependence off the table, would be good for
American foreign policy. But the very technological advances that make independence possible have
created a dilemma for lawmakers. Should the U.S. encourage more traditional fuel production or invest in
the young technology of renewable resources?
• Saturday, Feb. 15 – Israel and the U.S. by Dr. Marc Simon
Modern Israel’s struggles with the Palestinians have turned what was meant as a safe haven for Jews into
the center of decades-long conflict. The Arab Spring, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, failed peace talks, and
Israel’s own decision to give Washington the cold shoulder have put new strains on the 65-year-old
"special relationship" between Israel and the U.S.
• Saturday, Feb. 22 – Islamic Awakening by Dr. Catherine Cassara
The aftermath of the Arab Spring has resulted in unforeseen changes in the political landscape in many
countries, especially regarding the role of Islam and democracy. How have the countries in the Maghreb
reacted, including Tunisia, where the Arab Spring began? Is U.S. foreign policy adapting successfully to
all of the changes in the region?
• Saturday, March 1 – Food and Climate by Dr. Shannon Orr
Even as a sixth of the world’s population suffers from chronic hunger, a changing climate threatens to
wreak havoc on already insecure and vulnerable populations. As food and water become scarce and once
fertile land becomes barren, the U.S. finds itself faced with new challenges in securing the globe. The
U.S. is getting ready, but can it lead the way to climate reform.
Registration is required due to limited seating. Those registering must provide their name and phone
number in case a session has to be cancelled due to inclement weather.
Manuals will only be made available through advanced ordering and payment of $20 at time order is placed.
Manuals must be purchased on or before Jan. 25, and manuals are not required.
To register, call 419-353-5661 or 1-800-367-2882 or email [email protected] .