Great Decisions 2026
Get Ready
Great Decisions, America’s largest civic discussion program on world affairs, is coming back to Falmouth Public Library in 2026! This program highlights the most thought-provoking foreign policy challenges facing Americans and works to engage citizens by learning about and discussing one of eight critical global issues identified by the Foreign Policy Association in a non-partisan, open environment.
Starts March 2026
This program will run for eight consecutive weeks starting the first week of March 2026 and ending the fourth week of April. All participants will read the relevant chapter in the Great Decisions Briefing Book and watch the corresponding Master Class on DVD or streaming, which will be provided by the library for free to registered participants prior to each topic discussion.
2 Sessions To Pick From
There will be two sessions to choose from. Tuesday night’s from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm or Thursday’s afternoon’s from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Pick which session works best for your schedule.
Registration opens on January 1, 2026
Registration is required for each of the eight topic discussions and will be limited to 15 participants. Participants are encouraged to attend all eight sessions but you may choose to attend only certain topics. Starting on January 1, 2026, you will be able to register online using our library event calendar.
Great Decisions 2026 Topics
America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy by G. John Ikenberry
“Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.”
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy by Michael Mastanduno
“Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?”
U.S.-China Relations by Oriana Mastro
“Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?”
Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation by Gideon Rose
“U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?”
Ukraine and the Future of European Security by Thomas Wright
“With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?”
Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order by Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
“Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.”
U.S. Engagement of Africa by Jendayi E. Frazer
“Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?”
The Future of Human Rights and International Law by Jose Enrique Alvarez
“As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?”
Questions
If you have any questions about this program, please email us at info@falmouthpubliclibrary.org or call the Adult Service’s desk at 508-457-2555 x7 and ask for Jessica. We look forward to seeing you in 2026 for some great civic discussions!