Cultures in the 21st Century: Conflicts and Convergences

A Symposium Celebrating the 125th Anniversary of The Colorado College

The Colorado College hosted a symposium February 4-6, 1999, focusing on the critically important issue of globalization and intercultural dynamics in the next century. "Cultures in the 21st Century: Conflicts and Convergences" honored the College by celebrating the liberal arts’ quest for knowledge beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.

As our species enters a new millennium, we must ask what new impacts Western culture may have on others, and what impacts other cultures will have on the West. Will the expansion of market economies enhance more peaceful patterns of human cooperation? Will new information and communications technologies increase the human capacity to coordinate effective responses to environmental and other threats? Will tribalism and religious fundamentalism perpetuate conflict?

The College assembled highly prominent scholars and activists from around the world to address these questions through a three-day series of lectures, debates, and open discussions. Invited guests interacted with community members and Colorado College students, faculty, and alumni.

Discussion Topics:
1. Social Implications of a Global Economy
2. The Confucian World
3. The Islamic World
4. The Communitarian Impulse
5. The Future of Populist Politics
6. The Global Politics of Environmental Protection

Symposium Homepage | Schedule | Participants | Transcripts

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