Perspectives Matter... A McCuistion Program

Isn't It Time for Russia and Ukraine to Talk?

In this episode of "Perspectives Matter," host Jim Falk discusses the ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its third year, with two experts on the topic. With the conflict reaching a stalemate, Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange strategic attacks while Western nations grapple with their own policy decisions. The conversation features insights from Dr. George Beebe, Director of the Grand Strategy Program at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, and Dr. Charles Kupchan, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. They explore key issues including recent military maneuvers, NATO’s evolving role, the potential for peace negotiations, and the geopolitical implications of a protracted war. Tune in to understand the factors shaping the future of Ukraine and broader international relations.

Perspectives Matter - The Gaza/Palestinian Campus Protests: What Students Think

Joining Host Jim Falk are Corinne Hess, a sophomore at Berkeley University, California, and Zachary Suri, a sophomore at Yale University, New Haven Connecticut. Our guests lived the campus protest experience firsthand.
Corinne Hess participated in the 22-day long campus encampment and was a part of the demonstrations that lasted for about 10 weeks, organized by the UC Berkeley Divestment coalition.
Zachary Suri experienced the demonstrations at Yale, which as a Jewish student he found personally disturbing. Protesters verbally harassed Jewish students and prevented some students from attending Passover services. At Yale, vigils were held for Israelis and Palestinians. He believes strongly that respectful discussion is important and was disappointed that the protesters did not seem open to this.
The students talked about the need for a two-state solution. They believe it is critical to move toward a framework of peace.
 
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Perspectives Matter is a McCuistion Program and as part of a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization does not receive any pledge dollars, PBS funds, or government grants. The funding that has kept us on the air for 33-plus years comes from our grantors and loyal viewers. Your donation allows us to continue to hold engaging programs that provide different perspectives. To be a catalyst for change, support our TV programs. Thank you for your support and for watching.
 
Many thanks for your continued support!

Classical Liberals: Our Founding Fathers' Philosophy

What is a Classical Liberal...and why is that important today?
Joining Host Dennis McCuistion is Richard A. Epstein, Tisch Professor of Law at New York University, and a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution.
In a world of polarized political parties and dissatisfied citizens from across the political spectrum, it is sometimes hard for a person to know, not just how to "categorize" others politically, but how to understand their own beliefs. Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Green Party, independents, conservatives, liberals, progressives....all these terms mean different things to different people.
The important thing today though is how each person views government and the political process, whether different philosophical positions were responsible for what became the United States of America....and why citizens in general would be well served by understanding how the classical liberal tradition, with its roots in the 17th and 18th centuries, might well be a better way to view the political process.
 
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Perspectives Matter is a McCuistion Program and as part of a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization does not receive any pledge dollars, PBS funds, or government grants. The funding that has kept us on the air for 33-plus years comes from our grantors and loyal viewers. Your donation allows us to continue to hold engaging programs that provide different perspectives. To be a catalyst for change, support our TV programs. Thank you for your support and for watching.
 
Many thanks for your continued support!

Ageism Bias: Are There Solutions?

Welcome to Perspectives Matter, a McCuistion program, where we talk about things that matter with people who care. This week, host Vince Poscente leads part two of an insightful discussion on ageism—its societal impact, and the solutions needed to combat it.
Building on the foundational insights from part one, this episode brings together thought leaders and experts who share their perspectives on dismantling ageism and promoting inclusivity across generations. Joining the conversation is Ashton Applewhite, author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism and a powerful advocate for ending age discrimination. She discusses the need for grassroots cultural change and highlights global movements like the World Health Organization’s campaign to combat ageism.
Also featured is Dr. Louise Aronson, a leading geriatrician and author of the Pulitzer Prize finalist Elderhood, who emphasizes the potential of our aging population and the importance of policies that support healthy aging for all. Dr. Julie Ober Allen, a researcher at the University of Oklahoma, adds depth to the discussion by exploring the widespread prevalence of ageism and its harmful effects on health and social inclusion.
In the studio, Michelle Hough, an acclaimed HR professional, offers practical insights into how companies can address ageism in the workplace through education, diversity initiatives, and mentorship programs.
This episode of Perspectives Matter not only sheds light on the challenges posed by ageism but also inspires actionable strategies to foster a more inclusive society where every generation is valued. Tune in to learn how we can all be part of the solution and help shift the narrative around aging.______________
For more information and to engage with our program, visit our website at PerspectivesMatter.com or connect with us on social media. Thank you for listening, and remember, your perspectives matter.
Perspectives Matter is a McCuistion Program and as part of a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization does not receive any pledge dollars, PBS funds, or government grants. The funding that has kept us on the air for 34-plus years comes from our grantors and loyal viewers. Your donation allows us to continue to hold engaging programs that provide different perspectives.
To be a catalyst for change, support our TV programs at https://perspectivesmatter.com/donations-support/.
Thank you for engaging with us:Niki McCuistion, Co-founder/ Executive Producernikimccuistion@gmail.com, niki@perspectivesmatter.com(214) 394-6794

Disinformation: Does It Threaten Democracy?

Disinformation has been around for centuries so why now has it become a greater concern? The subject of disinformation has become a partisan, politicized issue, which is especially worrisome as half of the world’s population will go to the polls this year. The need for trusted information has never been more critical.
Joining Host Jim Falk to discuss this issue and what needs to be done to protect ourselves and our democracy are:
University of Texas at Austin associate professor of instruction Michael Mosser. In addition to his teaching courses on European and international security, Dr. Mosser is the Executive Director of the Global Disinformation Lab.
And Lee McIntyre, a Research Fellow at the Center for Philosophy and History of Science at Boston University, and a Senior Advisor for Public Trust in Science at the Aspen Institute. He is the author of ON DISINFORMATION: HOW TO FIGHT FOR TRUTH AND PROTECT DEMOCRACY.
Mr. McIntyre says, “It is crucial to distinguish between ordinary misconceptions and targeted manipulation—between misinformation and disinformation…. We have to stop thinking of our current epistemic crisis as if it were some sort of accident or natural disaster. It is a coordinated campaign … whose goal is to spread disinformation out to the masses, in order to foment doubt, division, and distrust. And create an army of deniers.”
Misinformation is false or inaccurate information—getting the facts wrong. Disinformation is false information deliberately intended to mislead—intentionally misstating the facts.
There are ways to protect ourselves, beginning with a greater awareness that we are all targets of those who wish to influence our decisions, thoughts, and actions; and do us harm. As disinformation becomes more effective and widespread, perhaps “Vigilance” is the watchword to remember.
Who are the enemies of truth and how do they use disinformation to weaken our society, our democracy, and trust?
Join us to learn from two of the country’s key experts on this growing security concern.

Curiosity: Our Great Superpower

Curiosity is somewhat defined as a strong desire to know or learn something. Curiosity is ingrained. It helps us learn as babies and survive as adults.
Host Jim Falk is joined by two experts on the topic:
Jennifer Zientz, MS, CCC,SLP, Director of Programs, Head of Clinical Services Center for Brain Health and
Cassini Nazir Assistant Professor College of Visual Arts and Design University of North Texas.
The discussion focuses on the emotion of curiosity and if curiosity can be enhanced and shaped. And, if curiosity is not part of our makeup, how might that impact our overall health and relations with others?
Curiosity seems to be a fundamental part of what makes us as humans tick, but do we all have the same kind, or amount, of curiosity? And why are some people more curious than others?

Ben & ME: Leadership Insights from Our Founding Fathers

Welcome to Perspectives Matter, a McCuistion program, where we talk about things that matter with people who careThis episode looks into the life and legacy of one of America’s most intriguing Founding Fathers.
Join host Jim Falk as he talks with Eric Weiner, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author, and with Jim Crupi, Ph.D., a renowned leadership expert. Together, they navigate the multifaceted personality of Benjamin Franklin, exploring why his life and wisdom remain profoundly relevant today. From Franklin’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative inventions to his unparalleled contributions to American society, Weiner’s latest book breathes new life into the narrative of this iconic figure.
Discover how Franklin’s principles and leadership strategies can be applied to contemporary life and business. Learn about his disciplined approach to daily life, his unique methods for building relationships, and his perspectives on education and continuous learning. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that not only revisits historical contexts but also provides actionable insights for today’s leaders and thinkers.

Campus Protests: Rights, Rules & The First Amendment

Joining host Jim Falk are:
Jeremi Suri, Ph.D., a professor of history at the University of Texas. Dr Suri is the author and editor of eleven books on politics and foreign policy and he is the host of a weekly podcast, “This is Democracy,” and
Paul C. Watler, Attorney/ Partner, at Jackson Walker, LLP. Paul is a First Amendment litigator and a nationally recognized expert in First Amendment law.
Our guests address free speech, and university neutrality—especially in light of the recent controversies over the war in Gaza.
Dr. Suri, who experienced the protests firsthand on his University of Texas Austin campus, says,” On April 24 and April 29, campus and Austin police were brought in, certainly appropriate if there is concern of disruption.
However, what struck me was the political triumph of bringing the police in. It seemed to be a public display of toughness rather than necessity, more of a political stance.”
Paul Watler discusses Harvard's response to campus protests, highlighting suspension, dialogue, and a new political neutrality policy, and explains how free speech rights apply differently in public vs. private universities. And where free speech principles do not apply.
Join us to hear more about how universities are increasingly adopting policies of neutrality on politically controversial issues. And why they are walking a tightrope between upholding free speech and ensuring campus safety.

The Ukraine War: Is the End in Sight?

Welcome to "Perspectives Matter... A McCuistion Program," where we talk about things that matter with people who care. In this episode, "The Ukraine War: Is the End in Sight?", host Jim Falk engages in an enlightening discussion with Kay Bailey Hutchison, former U.S. Senator and U.S. Ambassador to NATO, and David Kramer, Executive Director of the George W. Bush Institute and a specialist in Russian and Ukrainian affairs.
They explore the intricate dynamics of the Ukraine war, the strategic significance of U.S. and NATO involvement, and the future prospects for peace and stability in the region. From the rising threat of Russian expansionism to NATO’s 75th anniversary, our experts dissect current developments and their global impact.
Don't miss this in-depth analysis of one of today's most pressing geopolitical conflicts.

Sanctions: Do They Work?

Sanctions are now a favored tool for the United States to use against adversaries such as Russia, Iran, North Korea, and many other countries and individuals. Presently the U.S. has sanctions against more than 30 countries.
Joining Host Jim Falk to talk about the effectiveness, (or not), of sanctions and what this means to the country sanctioning as well as the country being sanctioned are:
Leon Aron, Ph.D., a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. A native of Moscow, Dr. Aron came to the U.S. as a refugee in 1978. An acclaimed Russian scholar, his latest book, Riding the Tiger: Vladimir Putin’s Russia and the Uses of War, is an incisive study of Russian history and what has brought Putin" to the point of no return.”
And Bruce Jentleson, Ph.D., a professor of Public Policy at Duke University. Dr. Jentleson is the author of Sanctions: What Everyone Needs to Know, a concise, authoritative overview of a little-understood yet extremely important phenomenon in world politics: the use of economic sanctions by one country to punish another.
Sanctions are easy to apply but hard to remove and frequently the result is opposite to their intent, of what is frequently described as a “shadow” weapon.
Join us to learn more about the politics of sanctions.