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Jonathan Samen Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations Discussion Series

Adults Ages 18+

What is Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations?

If you enjoy a lively exchange of ideas on today’s hot button topics, 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

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, a writer for the Atlantic and 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 joins us to discuss his latest book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Seen. He offers a practical, heartfelt guide to the art of truly knowing another person in order to foster deeper connections in every aspect of our lives. Getting to know and understand others is particularly relevant given the current state of our country and the world.

Support Hot Buttons, Cool Conversations

Help bring hundreds of community members together; distinguished scholars, thought leaders, and expert moderators for thought-provoking dialogue on issues of concern to the Jewish community and beyond.

A man delivering a lecture at a discussion series.

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