2020 Roundtable Topics
Our topics for this year are:
- Environment and Public Policy: It has never been more imperative for global leaders to combat consequences of rapid shifts in the global climate system. However, given recent examples of environmental abuses around the world, one wonders if those in power are addressing these concerns properly. Delegates in the Environment Roundtable will consider the environmental challenges and controversies facing the world today.
- Cultural Conflict and Resolution: With globalization comes not only cultural exchange, but also the potential for greater intercultural conflict. In Taiwan, many people struggle to define their cultural identity amidst China’s increasing influence on business and media. Meanwhile, the US faces its own identity crisis with recent political and social discord regarding immigration. What does it mean to be an American? What does it mean to be Taiwanese? In the Cultural Conflict and Resolution Roundtable, delegates will dive deep into the complexities of these issues both in the world at large and within the cultural intermix of TASC itself.
- Business and Politics: In October, the manager of the Houston Rockets Daryl Morey tweeted out his support towards the pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. As a result, Chinese firms suspended their sponsorship and telecast deals, which resulted in the NBA facing substantial losses over this dispute. The NBA isn’t alone; in recent years, numerous international companies and celebrities have taken political stances that have risked upsetting a country of 1.4 billion consumers, jeopardizing their access to a hugely profitable market. With both politics and the economy in mind, delegates will discuss the various issues that arise within the intersection of international business and politics.
- Education and Social Justice: Education is often said to be a great social equalizer. However, the reality of modern education doesn’t always seem to live up to these ideals. Students face the daunting realities of predatory school loans, mental health issues, decreasing employment prospects, and constant shifts in education policy that only serve to distract from their ability to learn. Likewise, an ever-increasing lack of respectability and compensation for teachers has driven many away from the profession, resulting in severe teacher shortages amongst high-need communities in both Taiwan and the United States. Given these circumstances, what can be done to rebalance the current inequities in education? Delegates in the Education and Social Justice Roundtable will carefully examine the equity issues affecting education in Taiwan and the United States.