Part I: Great Decisions 2009

What is America's role in the world? How do we as citizens inform ourselves and make Great Decisions? Great Decisions, a program of the Foreign Policy Association, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2004. The heart of the program is Americans talking about the world issues that concern and affect us. In today's world, gaining a greater understanding of and appreciation for the world's trouble spots and critical issues is essential.

There are two parts of Great Decisions 2009. Each part deals with four separate issues.

To cover all eight issues of the Great Decisions 2009 program, register for both parts.

You may take only one part if you choose. If you are unable to attend a session at the Villages, you may attend it at the other site, the Sobrato Community Conference Center in Milpitas and vice versa. Just let us know you will be coming to the session (408-924-2734).

We will also schedule a section of Great Decision in the summer term of 2009.

To experience the Great Decisions program, come to a free discussion on Tuesday, February 17. 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Sobrato Community Conference Center, Milpitas.

The topic taken from the Great Decisions 2008 lineup, is Engaging the Enemy: Iran, North Korea and Hamas. The US has no shortage of enemies. Should American diplomats engage with the enemy in an age of terrorism and nuclear proliferation?

Call 408-924-2734 to register and so that we can send you the pre-discussion reading.

Prior to each week's discussion, you read a section in the briefing book.

To order by phone, call toll-free, 800-477-5836. (The Foreign Policy Association accepts VISA, MasterCard and American Express.) Online orders can be placed on the bookstore page at www.greatdecisions.org.

We will discuss topics in the order below. At the discussion, you will see a short DVD prepared by the Foreign Policy Association. This usually is a panel of experts or in some cases a single expert. The presentation broadens what you read in the briefing book. Then, we break into small groups for discussion.

Rising Giants:

The World's Fastest Growing Countries Since the end of the cold war, the U.S. has emerged as the world's predominant power. However, in the 21st century some rapidly developing countries have become increasingly influential. Who are these "rising powers"? Will their emergence change the global balance of power? How will the U.S. react?

Border Patrol:

Afghanistan and Pakistan New found hopes for stability in Iraq have shifted the U.S. military focus back to Afghanistan and Pakistan, one of the most volatile border region in the world. What impact will this renewed interest have on the two states as well as on U.S. defense strategy?

Egypt Rising:

From Pharaohs to Facebook Egypt has long played an important role in the Arab world while maintaining a strategic relationship with the U.S. With elections scheduled for 2009, how will Egypt deal with serious domestic issues, ranging from Islamic radicalism to food shortages? What factors will influence the path of this regional heavyweight? Cuba after Castro Since Fidel Castro handed over the presidency of Cuba to his brother, Raul in early 2008, signs of greater economic openness have led to much speculation. Wil Raul seek to reopen ties with the U.S.? What role will Cuba's American exiles play in shaping a post-Castro Cuba?