Plenaries
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The term “superpower” means many things to many different people. The role of a true global superpower elicits strong emotions and at times passionate and heated debate. We invite you to join us in a thought provoking exchange of ideas regarding the complex role of a superpower in today’s world.
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A superpower is able to project its economic and military power on a truly global level. While regional powers have developed in certain areas of the world, it is apparent that the United States of America is the only global superpower in today’s world. This widely-held view will surely elicit spirited discussion. Being the sole superpower is a tremendous responsibility fraught with danger. Any superpower has incredible opportunity to lead and shape the world that we all inhabit. How should a superpower assert its power? How may a regional power and a superpower coexist? When should a superpower project its own power for the betterment of certain regions and mankind in general? There will be no unanimity when answering these questions. If we are able to examine these questions in a thoughtful manner, this exercise will lead to a greater understanding of the complex times in which we live.
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Our plenary will feature two speakers, The Honourable Barbara McDougall and Steven Bernstein. Among many other accomplishments, Ms. McDougall was a Member of Parliament for nine years and held several cabinet posts, including: Finance (Minister of State), Privatization, Employment and Immigration, and External Affairs. Mr. Bernstein is currently an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
