Our classes have take one of the world's very real and intractable problems: Global Warming. We have looked at several perspectives from citizens, scientists, political leaders, and scholars that mirror the complexity of the issues. Former Vice-President Al Gore has made a persuasive case for change.

The assignment due Friday, February 9, is to have you write
1. the problem
2. the significance of the problem
3. why the problem persists
4. plans to solve the problem
5. the efficacy of the plans
6. advantages and disadvantages of the implementing the various plans

How will each of the following political and economic systems likely address the problem both politically and economically: Traditional, Command, Market.

Historically, the American political and economic systems (democracy/capitalism) have successfully met a series of “tests” as to whether Lincoln’s “New Nation,” built upon the political philosophy of liberty, freedom, and equality, could indeed survive and flourish. Past tests have included the debate over state’s rights, slavery, women suffrage, totalitarianism (communism and fascism), and civil rights. Today the challenges include terrorism, building sustainable economies, meeting the basic needs of all people, and the environment. The challenge is whether “We the People” can and ought to act in our own interest and for the common good in achieving the New Nation.

The Global Warming debate encompasses all sectors of the American political and economic systems. As with all great debates, the issues are complex and decisions have to be made in the context of many competing perspectives and interests. Initially, we will consider the case for addressing global warming made by former Vice President Al Gore in his recent movie, An Inconvenient Truth.