Public Diplomacy
Picture of America
Argument: By defunding public diplomacy programs in the 1990s, it did not stop it, but merely privatized it.
Subtopic
Al-Jazeera
Argument:Despite America's media preception that Al-Jezeera is anti-American, it is also aiding in a revolution in Arabic political culture. It is in this new culture that America should utilize Al-Jezeera as an instrument to communicate with the Middle Eastern communities.
Muslim Immigrants
Argument: More stories from foreign born Muslims that break misconceptions that are held in many Muslim countries can be as useful (maybe more) than what they see from media sources.
Shouting Across the Divide
Perception of your own country and it's perception of you.
This story was so familiar to me. I had the privilege of speaking with a Muslim women in St. Louis and she told me stories of her family and their struggle before and after 9/11. They experienced the same sort of discrimination as the family in the story.
Hearts and Minds
Subtopic
Argument: America has squandered its ability in the art of winning hearts and minds around the world.
Brutality at Home
Argument:America's actions within set a bad image for America abroad. .
Goodwill Hunting
Argument: A mutually beneficial relationship was forged between the government and Hollywood to create a specific American image both at home and abroad.