Discussion about John F. Kennedy

Dick Simpson, alderman of Chicago, discusses neighborhood governments. He describes the history, explains the uses of wards, and shows how the system can work in light of a recent election in Chicago. Studs reads an article about the recent election by Mike Royko.

Alderman Dick Simpson discusses his book, "Strategies for Change: How to Make the American Political Dream Work," and his work as the 44th Ward Alderman. He explains the assembly system that now runs the 44th Ward, where members are able to bind him to a vote if the majority decides. He also discusses how the assembly has already changed redlining, the school system, truck load limits, and high rise development within their neighborhood.

Ray Girardin, Detroit Police Commissioner, is opposed to capital punishment. In 1930, he witnessed a man being put to death and he says it's a horrible sight to behold. Representative Robert Canfield of Rockford, explained that the state doesn't have the right to put a man to death. He further explained that the death penalty does more harm than good. Springfield freshman representative Jim Moran talks about House Bill 28 and the abolishment of the death penalty going through.

Former Mayor of Cleveland, Ohio, Dennis Kucinich, explained that when he ran for office, he believed it was important to take a stand and to fight for what you believe in. Kucinich believed people had the right to good public education for their children, along with lower costs for their utilities and their health insurance. Kucinich also believed people wanted good jobs and if everyone did the right thing, they would be rewarded..

Discussing the book "Mornings on Horseback" with author David McCullough.

David Lewis, Canadian politician, discusses Canada's domestic and foreign affairs, including their relationship with America. He also spends some time talking about Canadian socialism including universal health insurance.

David Halberstam, writer and historian, talks about his book, "The Fifties." The conversation includes Brown v. Board of Education, atomic weapons, the Cold War, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, consumerism, birth control, suburbs, television and the start of the counterculture. Halberstam reads several passages from his book.

Discussing Bobby Kennedy and interviewing David Halberstam.

Daniel Yergin, author and economic historian, discusses his book, "Shattered Peace: The Origins of the Cold War and the National Security State." He explains the key players in the Cold War and his thoughts on the Yalta and Riga Axioms. Yergin also explores the end of World War II and other events that led to the tensions between US and the Soviet Union.

Daniel Ellsberg, political activist and former military analyst, discuses his release of the Pentagon Papers and his thoughts on how the Vietnam War played out. He also discusses what he believes the next war could look like and how America, and the world, would be affected by nuclear war.