OSHER 535 - Transforming Our Global Challenges

Today we are facing a convergence of interrelated global challenges, including: The differences between people that divide us, such as race, gender, nationality, politics, religion, and sexual preference. Climate change, loss of biodiversity, and pollution of water, earth, and air. COVID-19 pandemic and lack of equitable access to health care. War and preparations for war. High rates of human trauma, depression, and anxiety. In this class, we will explore how all of these global challenges are rooted in our own human psyche, including our ego-functioning, left-brain hemispheric dominance, and tendencies towards indifference and violence. We will also look at what we can all do to help create a healthier and more equitable, inclusive, and just world.