Caught in the Middle

I’ve been reading Caught in the Middle: America’s Heartland in the Age of Globalism by Richard Longworth.  I highly recommend the work.

In very readable style, the book examines the rise, the stability, and ultimately, the precipitous fall of the Midwest region of the US, which now confronts the realities of a global economy.

What will the future of the Midwest bring?  What actions can we take to make life better?  What can universities contribute?  (On the last question, see also this paper recently published by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs).

No matter where you live and work, I think you’d find this book worth reading.

It reminds us to pay careful attention to our place in the world, and to work together to make a smarter, brighter future.

How the Internet affects divided communities in Northern Ireland

I’ve been following the struggle for peace in Northern Ireland for many years.  Tonight, the British Council sponsors an important lecture in Derry on The Internet of People.

In advance of this lecture I saw this blog post by Michelle Gallen.  In the fading afterglow of St. Patrick’s Day, I think it’s good for all Americans to consider the power – and the limits – of the Internet in (daily) border crossings.

If you’re interested in learning more about the past, present and future of Ireland, check out this MU Summer study abroad course.