Jonathan Samen Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations Discussion Series
What is Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations?
If you enjoy a lively exchange of ideas on today’s hot button topics, Jonathan Samen Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations — the JCC’s acclaimed discussion series — is for you.
We bring together distinguished scholars, thought leaders and expert moderators for thought-provoking dialogue on issues of concern to the Jewish community and beyond. The series is named in honor of Jonathan Samen, z”l (of blessed memory), past chair of the JCC Greater Boston Governing Board, to recognize his legacy of leadership.
All JCC arts and humanities offerings are programs of the Ryna Greenbaum JCC Center for the Arts. As a 501(c)(3), JCC Greater Boston does not endorse or oppose candidates for public office or political parties.
Past Events
Unlocking the Key to Happiness: It’s Never Too Late!
Dr. Robert Waldinger, author of, “The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness” reveals the answers to the question: What makes for a happy and fulfilling life? His TED Talk about the Harvard Study, “What Makes a Good Life,” has more than 47 million views and is one of the ten most-watched TED talks ever.
October 7 One Year Later: The War’s Far Reaching Impact
It has been nearly a year since the October 7th attacks, the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. That day, and the ensuing war, sparked a surge in global antisemitism and immense suffering on both sides. Our Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations panel features American, Israeli, and Palestinian experts. They discuss the war’s impact in Israel and its political effects in the U.S. The panel also explores how the war may influence upcoming elections and how election results could affect the conflict in Israel, Gaza, and beyond.
Israel and Gaza: Finding a Way Forward
As we approach six months since the horrendous massacre on October 7, there is no end in sight for the conflict in Gaza. With an incalculable human cost, our Hot Buttons Cool Conversations panel examines if there is another way forward. We look ahead to the time when Israelis, Palestinians and the rest of the world must wrestle with the future Gaza and its relationship with Israel. We examine Israel’s alternative paths and what role the U.S. has to play in managing the crisis.
An Evening with David Brooks
David Brooks is an op-ed columnist for The New York Times and a writer for The Atlantic. He is a regular on the PBS NewsHour. He is also the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Second Mountain and The Road to Character. David discusses his latest book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Seen. He offers a practical guide to truly knowing others and fostering deeper connections. This topic is especially relevant given the current state of our country and the world.
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