If the US Ceases to Be Clearly #1, How Could Our Lives Change?

How do you think our lives will change if the US is no longer the lone superpower?

Since WWII, the US has been the unquestioned global hegemon. While far from perfect, it has enriched the world with newfangled technological and cultural innovation while enabling and protecting international trade. With a clear gradual erosion of power and influence over the decades, we are facing the very real prospect of living in a world with 2, 3 or even 4 competing centers of power, each with checks and balances over the other.

We will engage in a dialectical guided discussion. Please see the agenda and rules of discussion below:

Agenda
Arrive & Gather (15 min)
Icebreaker Activity (10 min)

• TBA

Discussion Activities (45-60 min)

• Think about inflation, cost of living, availability of goods...
• What about how we see ourselves and our culture?
• What does all this say about our democratic, individualist 'experiment'?
• Were our Founding Fathers off, or does their wisdom still hold but with slight updates?
• What will it mean to be an 'American'?

Hard Stop on Discussion by Scheduled End Time
Hangout & Connect (Optional)

Rules of Discussion

• Listen actively.
• Speak to the whole group, not just the host.
• Economy of Words: Learn how to express one idea at a time, concisely. Avoid 10-minute monologues!
• Watch your speaking inertia. Speaking is a two-way activity; yes, you should be watching and listening to others even as you speak.
• We want organic conversational, discussion flow.
• Understand good interruptions, those that enhance points being made or seek clarity, not debunk or attack.
• If you receive a good interruption, allow it!
• You’re not here to change minds. You’re here to learn how your own mind might be changed!
• Challenge ideas, not the person. What you say can be questioned or criticized. And you have the right to do the same with anyone else. (If you don’t believe your points can withstand scrutiny, don’t offer it.)
• Beware of absolute statements: "Always, never, forever, everyone..."
• Watch for broad blame or abstract assumptions: “It’s all women’s fault.” “It’s all capitalism’s fault!” “It’s obvious the trickle-down economics doesn’t work.” “Everyone knows illegals are using up all of our social benefits.” "Because they are stupid..."

Where to Find Us
We will set up at one or more tables inside. Look for our sign! Please be aware that parking may be a little tight due to the construction immediately next door to Civil Pour, but that has no impact on the cafe interior itself.

About the Venue
If you're not into coffee, no problem! Civil Pour has quite a food menu as well as a host of other beverages including teas, beer and much more, so feel free to do your own thing.

About Nuanced Discussions
See our main group page! Dialectical discussion, not debate.

DISCLAIMER
We are NOT affiliated with any business, religious, or spiritual organizations. Our objective is to facilitate quality dialectical discussion and activities with responsible adults. We do NOT support MLM, paid mentorship/life coaching, network marketing, real-estate/entrepreneurial education, or related exploitative schemes. Please respect our age boundaries (YOB 1980+).