The World Affairs Council of Greater Richmond has presented numerous provocative events. Its featured speakers have included diplomats, scholars and journalists. The topics have covered just about every aspect of America's foreign policy and of the world as a whole. The organization promotes education. It strives to keep the community informed.
The so-called Arab Spring not only has attracted international attention but has stirred hopes inside the region and beyond. It has generated concerns as well. On Aug. 24 the council will offer a program headed by David Makovsky, a highly regarded analyst of the Middle East. Makovksy will address the question: "Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East."
The speaker has covered the territory for The Jerusalem Post, Haaretz and U.S. News & World Report. His associations are politically ecumenical. The Jerusalem Post lies somewhat to the right of center, Haaretz somewhat to the left. The Israeli press is vigorous indeed. Makovsky and Dennis Ross have co-authored "Myths, Illusions & Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East," which, as its title implies, likely will inform his Richmond appearance. Ross served his country with distinction as a diplomat in successive administrators. He ranks among the most impressive visitors to engage The Times-Dispatch's Editorial Board.
The Middle East's potential to affect the U.S., for good or ill, may be more dramatic than that of any other global region. The situation in Damascus, for instance, could have consequences for Virginia. The late critic Lionel Trilling cited "the moral obligation to be intelligent." The World Affairs Council does its part. Check www.richmondworldaffairs.org for further information.
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