1. Trends in Political Systems What are recent changes, and where are they taking us?

2. Democracy Since the 1980s we have seen a steady global spread of democracy worldwide. This has been from the right and the left: Military regimes in Africa and South America; Communist governments in Europe. China?

3. China and Russia In Russia an opening of the Political System starting with Glasnost. But economy remains primitive. In China economic reforms, but only slow political change. Which is better? North Korea and Cuba.

4. Capitalism and Market Economy. The last 60 years have seen the growth of capitalism and market economy Similarly, growth in government spending and private indebtedness. Came crashing down in 2007. Can the welfare state survive?

5. China and Russia Can China spread its wealth to the countryside? Can it develop Democratic institutions? Can Russia modernize its economy and get away from dependence on exporting raw materials?

6. Future of Welfare State Debt has forced governments to cut spending and raise taxes, especially following the Greek crisis. Can countries afford the welfare state model. Can America afford to move into it?

7. Rich and Poor Countries Rise of Asia under both Communism (China) and Capitalism (India). Trade recession cuts income of poor countries. People able to buy less, which is bad news for exporting countries. Is Consumerism constrained?

8. Europe? Will the debt crisis stress the disunity of Europe and move it backwards? Will Europe split over the Euro? Is more political control the answer? Will it move toward statehood?

9. The USA Will it become more or less unilateral? Will it turn back to reducing the size and the role of government? Tea Party. Will it withdraw from its global involvement?

10. Bulgaria Will it become more involved in the European Economy? Will it become a bridge to Central Asia? Will it become a regional force in the Balkans? Stability.

11. NATO Will it remain Europe’s military arm? What is its political role? Does America want it? Does Europe? New plan for NATO due this November (2010) NATO now engaged in peace-keeping in many countries, but what is its political mission? Is this the job of the UN?