Wednesday, October 28
Is Patriotism the Problem or the Cure?
Love of country can inspire service, strengthen communities, and create a sense of shared responsibility. Yet Americans often disagree about what patriotism asks of us, particularly when pride in the nation meets criticism of its actions or institutions. We will explore how love of country can coexist with an honest assessment of its shortcomings, and whether good citizenship requires both. When does patriotism call us to preserve our traditions, and when does it call us to challenge them in pursuit of the nation’s founding ideals?
Our Society Reimagined is a four-week discussion series that brings community members together to explore timely domestic issues that shape our modern society. Participants are given reading materials that will be used as background for lively, moderated discussions each week. Using the practice of civil dialogue, moderators will facilitate conversations that will help participants gain perspective on the underlying values and ideas that we hold as individuals and as a society and will explore how these tenets shape our lives.
America at 250: Founding to Future
As America marks its 250th anniversary, this fall’s Our Society Reimagined will look a little different. Alongside the contemporary articles and essays featured in past programs, participants will read and discuss several longer classic texts and foundational American documents. This deeper engagement with the ideas at the heart of American civic life will anchor our exploration of enduring and contemporary debates surrounding unity and diversity, the balance of national and state power, liberty and equality, the rule of law, and the meaning of patriotism. Together, we will consider how America’s founding principles can help us navigate the present and imagine our shared future.
The 2026 series will take place in person on our Aspen Meadows campus from 6:00-8:00 pm MT on four consecutive Wednesdays, October 14-November 4. Clint Kinney and Kara Silbernagel will moderate the series this year.
Fee: $225, includes all sessions, refreshments, and reading materials.
To register, please click here.
Please contact Ari Mizrahi at [email protected] with any additional questions.
