We read short selections from some of the world’s best fiction and nonfiction. Through conversation with each other, attendees achieve greater appreciation for the material, gain interesting insights, and enjoy social engagement. Class members determine the reading selections, which vary each semester. Each selection is independent of others, so missing a session or more is no problem.

Each year the Foreign Policy Association publishes a booklet analyzing eight topics related to foreign policy it believes offer opportunities and/or risks to the United States. This discussion course expects participants to buy the "2025 Great Decisions" booklet ($35), read the assigned material, and come to class prepared to offer individual insights and opinions. The booklet is available from the Foreign Policy Association via its website (https://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/). Topics include: American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads; U. S. Changing Leadership of the World Economy; U.S.-China Relations; and India: Between China, the West, and the Global South.