Great Decisions is a nationwide project designed to enhance citizen participation in foreign affairs. It follows a curriculum put together by the Foreign Policy Association. Each week we will explore the 2026 Great Decisions curriculum that allows for an in-depth examination and discussion of current international challenges through the lens of national interests. Topics will include: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy, Tariffs, U.S. China Relations, U.S. Engagement in Africa, and Ukraine and European Security.

John Dickson served 26 years in the U.S. Foreign Service, with assignments in Nigeria, South Africa, Peru, Mexico and Canada, as well as in Washington DC. He is active in local history projects in Pittsfield while continuing international work through two Peace Corps alumni organizations: Encore de la Paix and the Peace Corps Community for Refugees. He holds degrees in history from Princeton University and the University of Massachusetts. His book, History Shock: When History Collides with Foreign Relations, was published in 2021. 

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