Socrates was an Ancient Greek philosopher who had a profound effect on Western civilization. Using an approach similar to his Socratic method, this forum will offer an open round table discussion during each session in which all attendees will be welcome to contribute to the discussion. A topic will be selected during each monthly session, and participants will have the opportunity to share their opinions without interruption. The expected outcome of this unique learning experience is for everyone involved to learn and discuss interesting philosophical issues with others on many interesting topics in an open and respectful environment.

The Log Kingdom is a study of the era when log houses were paramount in “Mother Cumberland.” A cabin is very different from a log house; for one thing they don’t all have fireplaces! Building a temporary “cabin” could be done, with help, in a day. Building a log house required knowledge of geometry and precise carpentry. Many log houses exist today as the core of a larger house, or hidden under siding.

Come learn how to make a pair of delightful “snow people” from socks. After forming the body, we will have the added fun of dressing them in hats and sweaters to make each snowperson unique. No crafting experience is necessary. This handcrafted item makes an excellent gift for the person who has everything.

In 1998, the American Film Institute (AFI) polled over 1,500 artists and film industry leaders to gather their votes for the top 100 American films of all time. These “arbiters of excellence” chose from a list of 400 nominated films. The criteria included critical recognition, major awards won, popularity over time, historical significance, and cultural impact. Controversy ensued as often happens with any list of excellence. The AFI produced a revised list in 2007, and films were dropped, others added, some moved up, and others dropped down. This 2007 list will serve as the basis for the course. In Part 1 we will count down from #100 to #51. For each film, we will examine the historical and cultural context, the impact of each film on the art of feature narrative films, and discuss why this film found its way onto this exalted list. Clips will be shown for each film. Part 2 will be offered in Spring 2022.

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.