"The Mighty and the Almighty: Reflections on God, America and World Affairs"

May 16, 2006

Temple Jeremiah hosted a discussion between Rabbi Paul Cohen and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, followed by a question and answer segment. The event drew about 1200 people throughout the Chicago area.The first woman Secretary of State and one of today's most respected world leaders, Madeleine Albright discussed her newly released book, The Mighty and the Almighty, which addresses some of the most controversial political and social questions of our time:

• Does America have a unique relationship with God?
• Has the U.S., as George W. Bush proclaimed, been divinely ordained to bring liberty and democracy to the world?
• What role does the Christian right have in influencing U.S. foreign policy?
• What strategy should America adopt in shaping its relations with the Muslim world?
• Is peace still possible in the Middle East?

Drawing on her experiences in office, interviews with global statesmen and her own beliefs, Dr. Albright offered a thoughtful look at the relationship between morality and diplomacy, the debate separating liberals and conservatives in the U.S., the war in Iraq and the epic confrontation with terror. She provided a fresh look at the issues and passions that, in the aftermath of 9/11, have roiled the world and endangered us all.