These groups meet to review and discuss articles from the Great Decisions Workbook; discuss America’s challenges through books, CONTACT US to find out more about these groups!
The International Relations Discussion Group
This group meets the first Monday of the month, except during summer, to review and discuss articles from the Great Decisions Workbook prepared by the Foreign Policy Association. We meet on Zoom or in the homes of Branch members from 10:00 AM until noon. Guests and new members are always welcome. Meeting details are available in the Lake Washington Branch newsletter.
Meeting Topics Great Decisions 2026 Edition
January 5: Chapter 7 AI & American National Security
February 2: Chapter 6 – Multilateral Institutions In a Changing World
March 2: Chapter 8 – The Future of Human Rights & International Law in a Divided World
April 6: Chapter 5 – Ukraine and the future of European Security
May 4: Chapter 3 – U.S. – China Relations in the New Trump Era
Sept 14: Chapter 7 – U.S. Engagement with Africa
America’s Challenges Book Group
This group meets on Mondays, usually at six-week intervals, to read and discuss articles and non-fiction books that widen our knowledge and give context to the issues that face our society today. In so doing we hope to apply what we learn to personal choices and decisions we make. Members suggest readings and lead discussions on a rotating basis.
AMERICA’S CHALLENGES Reading List 2025-2026
Oct. 13 David Graham: The Project: How Project 2025 is Reshaping America
Jan. 12 Sarah Wynn-Williams: Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism
March 9 Jill Lepore: We the People: A History of the US Constitution
May 11 Jonathan Haidt: The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
July 13 Kerry Brown: Why Taiwan Matters: A Short History of a Small Island that Will Dictate Our Future