Democracy: To Be or Not to Be

What does it take to maintain and restore civic society in a democracy? What does it take to maintain and restore a democracy itself? These two interrelated questions form the foundation of “Democracy: To Be or Not to Be”, a new discussion-based course offered through the Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL).

The course invites participants to explore both the present condition and the possible future of democracy through thoughtful dialogue and shared inquiry. Using current challenges as a lens, the class will examine critical issues affecting democratic life today, including various forms of equality—economic, political, and psycho-social—as well as the roles of media, money in politics, voting, civic culture, and community engagement.

On four consecutive Thursdays beginning April 9, each session will begin with brief remarks by the instructor, followed by guided discussion among participants. Divergent viewpoints will be welcomed and appreciated.

Readings will be distributed in the first class to cover sessions two through four. Enrollees will be expected to complete the assigned readings prior to each class.  The classes will be held in Clubhouse I. Enrollees should check the lobby TV monitor for the room assignment.

About the Instructor 

Paul Levy has been a very active teacher for the CLL.  He holds three degrees from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and spent many years as a teacher and school administrator at secondary and college levels.

For registration information, see the Classes and Seminars section of this edition of Leisure World News.  Note that CLL has a new registration process.