Drawbridge Up or Drawbridge Down? and Other Unresolved Issues - Why We Should Love Trump

Fall (14 hours or more) | This course is completed

10 Hilton Field Road Hanover, NH 03755 United States

Dining Room

New

9/19/2017-11/7/2017

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$80.00

7 sessions, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Tuesdays, September 26 through November 7, 2017
DOC House - Hanover, NH
Course Fee: $80


However one defines American “greatness” and what it takes to be “great,” there are several unresolved issues that must be addressed. The most recent election (and recent debates over public issues) are forcing us to think carefully about just who we are, what we value, and where we want to be in future decades. While the issue of income and wealth inequality in our country and the accompanying debate over the role of government in our economy, including entitlements and access to health care, are compelling (and we will examine these issues), the “front burner” issue has become “Do we want an open or a closed society? Drawbridges up? Or down?” Do we embrace cultural and demographic change or not? What does “America First” really mean? The jury is still out on whether or not our democracy is up to the challenges.

This course will focus initially on understanding the historical, political, social, and economic context in which the 2016 election occurred, then examine the still unresolved issues that polarize us. Focus is on issues, not personality or political intrigue. Thank our President for forcing us to thoughtfully examine the facts.

  • Several hours of reading will be expected for each class in order to enhance substantive discussions.
  • BEFORE the class begins, participants are expected to read at least ONE of the following: Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy, Isenberg’s White Trash, or Hochschild’s Strangers in Their Own Land.
Wilson, Jim

Jim taught history and economics for nearly fifty years before retiring to the Upper Valley. He lives in Strafford, VT, and has taught numerous courses on how our economy works and the challenges it faces.