Throughout history, propaganda has been used to misdirect, misinform and deflect truth and reality from people in order to create behavior and inspiration for political, religious and economic ideas. Language, art and music are the primary tools used for communication, and they have been used for both good and bad effect, often encouraging people to make stupid decisions. This program explores human gullibility, the pitfalls of language and communication, famous propagandists in history and how it affects us today in a world of social media, 24-hour “news” outlets, political pundits, politicians, friends and family.

Instructor: Steve Pollack lectures on culture, history, music and art in area schools, libraries, and community & continuing education groups.

CHOOSE A SESSION: MONDAYS OR WEDNESDAYS (No class 9/24)

Learn, discuss, and ask questions about the history and structure of the Constitution, the Constitutional Convention, current arguments and misconceptions & details about certain Articles and Amendments. At the end of the course, you can apply your knowledge of the Constitution when it comes up in current events.

Instructor: Jules Mermelstein is a retired UDT Commissioner, criminal defense attorney, teacher of history, gov't and constitutional law, and ACLU volunteer attorney. He is currently serving as a Vice-Chair of the Montgomery Bar Association's Government Relations Committee. He loves class discussions and any questions you have.

The objective of the course is to gain a basic understanding of how Artificial Intelligence works without having to know computer science or advanced math. Understand the technologies being used so you can make better decisions between hype and fear.

Instructor: David Peltzman brings deep expertise in applying AI across industries, with over 28 years in Fortune 500 pharma and experience consulting on AI strategy and development. He has taught IT and AI at multiple universities and led innovative AI solutions in both business and defense sectors.

Discuss the views and positions expressed on CSPAN, weekend TV news shows and print news media in this interactive class. All viewpoints are encouraged.

Instructor: Dan Shoulberg has been a moderator of current events forums for 20+ years. He is the Program Coordinator for UDPL's Adult Discovery & Learning series.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

A multi-disciplinary exploration of liberal ideology and its applications to politics, economics, culture, education, and religion. The rise of liberalism from its roots in the Enlightenment. Declines of humanism, tolerance, and democratic values. The recent rise of technocracy, oligarchy, pseudo-science, populism, illiberalism, and neo-fascism in the United States. Ideas for resurrection of liberal democracy, as an antidote to authoritarian corruption and incompetence.

Instructor: Sanford Catz is a retired Lockheed Martin aerospace engineering manager; Greater Philadelphia Thinking Society organizer and discussion group leader; Temple University OLLI lifelong learning instructor of multi-disciplinary courses in science and the humanities. Credentials include: MEng, Engineering Sciences, Pennsylvania State University; BS, Chemistry, Carnegie Mellon University.

Our democracy has endured wars, depressions, and civil unrest. But today, the nation faces the threat of erosion from within. Can democracy itself survive? Learn about democracy’s institutions and principles, its flaws and anti-democratic legacies, and the challenges we face in safeguarding democracy today.

Instructor: David Starfield has lived and worked in UD for close to 40 years. For his contributions to the legal profession, he was recognized as a Life Fellow by the ABA's American Bar Foundation, as an AV rated attorney by Martindale and as a Superlawyer by Philadelphia Magazine. He has written extensively and presented seminars throughout his career.

The economies of the two largest powers today, USA and China, are highly entwined. But recent policies are severely straining these ties. We will discuss the potential consequences from a historic and cultural perspective. Join me in an informative, interactive discussion. This lecture builds upon the previous US & China Relations lecture delivered last Fall.

Presenter: Ranjan Mukherjee Ph.D., is a retired scientist, traveler and writer. He gives presentations on his learnings, adventures and experiences in foreign lands.