This session will examine the sometimes smooth and often rocky relationship between science and government in the debate over public policy goals and their implementation. The use of nuclear weapons in war, the landing of humans on the moon, and the vanquishing of disease all exemplify the interplay of scientists and politicians in the pursuit of public policies. Debates over vaccination, biotechnologies, and climate change all illustrate the turbulent search for truth and appropriate policy action in a time of sharply polarized politics.

This course will examine how we can live better together. In an interactive environment we will be the teachers and learners together as we learn principles of dignity and respect toward others who have different political, cultural and religious viewpoints. To guide our discussions, we will be using the book Dignity: Its Essential Role in Resolving Conflict by Donna Hicks. Course participants are encouraged to read the book prior to the class. 

Two programs of piano music by great composers will feature a survey of significant pieces from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The first program will include well known pieces from the following composers: Bach, Purcell, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Liszt, Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Messiaen, Brahms, and Chopin. As we listen, St. Colombe said, “We may realize that music exists to say something that words cannot say. “The second program will include transcriptions from opera and sacred music in addition to descriptive pieces of nature and religious significance. You will hear music that evokes memories of birdsong, poetry, Bible stories, and the musical expression of the joys and sorrows we have all experienced during our lives.