The 21st century has been an extraordinary time of change, in both positive and negative ways. Americans now live under the threat of terror. Our society is characterized by economic inequality, a dec

The 21st century has been an extraordinary time of change, in both positive and negative ways. Americans now live under the threat of terror. Our society is characterized by economic inequality, a decline in social services, the rise of mammoth corporations, and the slow-motion crisis of climate change. At the same time, there has been much good as people have responded to the uncertainty. Average Americans continually help victims of natural disasters, advocate for the vulnerable and the marginalized, volunteer time, and give money to charities. The world has become "smaller" through globalization - mass communication, faster travel, and internet culture - and we are much more familiar with the cultures and peoples across the globe than just twenty years ago. This has significantly altered the world economy and world politics.

• The Internet has had an undisputed effect on the distribution of information. Do you think the political results of this broad distribution of information have been positive? Why, or why not?
• Discuss the pros and cons of globalization and its impact on the United States. Have you felt that globalization affects you personally in your community or at your workplace? If so, how? If not, why not?
• In what ways has the United States changed in the last two decades since 9/11?