VI. The Humanities and Contemporary Issues

E. September 11 and its Aftermath

America in the Eyes of an Islamic Fundamentalist
By John Calvert
Sayyid Qutb (1906-1966), the prominent ideologue of Islamic fundamentalism, studied in the United States from 1948 to 1950. This presentation traces Qutb's journey across America, focusing on his six-month stay at Greeley's Colorado State College of Education (now the University of Northern Colorado). Letters and articles that Qtub wrote are examined as sources for his observations on American society, allowing audiences to enter the worldview of Islamic fundamentalism and understand how others view Americans. Slides and materials, collected by Calvert in Cairo and Greeley, are featured.

Change and Revolution in the Modern Middle East
By John Calvert
After World War II, a rise of nationalism and self-determination swept through the Middle East. The aspirations of the Arab revolutionary leaders and the riches of oil seemed to offer a new future. Today, Arab nations are the victims of civil war, stagnant economies and authoritarian rulers. Why have these outcomes occurred instead of the progress envisioned decades ago? This presentation provides answers to these questions with reference to Arab independence and the rise of revolutionary regimes in the 1950s and 1960s, the rise of Islamic fundamentalism and the causes and consequences of the Gulf War.

Perspectives on Globalization
By Robert Lind
From the end of World War 11 until the collapse of the Soviet Union, we lived in an era identified with the term "Cold War." A number of historians and observers are now suggesting that the time period we presently live in can be best described as the "Era of Globalization." Increased interaction on a global scale in a technological, economical, cultural, political, and cultural sense will affect our lives in Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Broken Bow, Minden, and on the family farm. With the use of slides, Lind will draw upon insights and information, acquired from experience gained through extensive travel and a good deal of study on the subject of the emergence of a global culture.

Security in the Post-Cold War Era
By Patrice McMahon
McMahon focuses on changes in international cooperation, both with our allies and former enemies, weapons of mass destruction, warfare and how we have come to define security and national interest.

When Is War Just?: Christian Ethics of War and Peace 
By Roger Bergman
Prior to the 4th century, most Christians were pacifists. For most of Christian history, however, the possibility that war sometimes may be morally permissible or even necessary has generally been accepted. This program covers such topics as “when is war just?” and “what are the ethical issues in our current international situation?” Presentations may be tailored for either church or other audiences.