Given Chautauqua Institution's dedication to lifelong learning it is appropriate that some of our nation's great educators take the dais to articulate the role of education in civil society. Lectures will highlight approaches that cultivate educated souls and dedicated citizens with a passion for learning and a spirit of discovery. The educated citizen in a democracy must sort out the blend of persuasion and entertainment from almost every presentation of what might, in an earlier age, have been thought to be information. Today's readers and viewers must recognize rumors reported as news, fiction masquerading as fact, and the role of the reporter in creating a story. This week will continue the recent series of themes examining the ethical issues of professionals and their impact on the lives of citizens.
All religions share a belief that human beings can rise above circumstances and mistakes.
Though paths to transformation differ widely among the Abrahamic faiths, each offers fulfillment and enlightenment through prayer, meditation, worship, artistic engagement and service to humanity. Chautauquans will have the opportunity to explore the transforming power of faith with Jewish, Christian and Muslim colleagues. This week will feature geographers, city officials, sociologists, economists and architects who will discuss current conditions and future trends of community life. The War Between the States stands as a significant historical, social and political turning point that affords us the opportunity to examine our nation's past and future at once. The issues that surrounded the struggle to unify the states and abolish slavery set us on a course that continues today.