Past Events

The world order in 2018 is heavily reliant on the flow of information across various media platforms. The media has a massive influence on how events are perceived, which can be hazardous if there is misreporting or bias–so-called "fake news." On the other hand, increased reporting may lead to more transparency and communication on a global scale. “The CNN Effect” was impactful during the Cold War and has continued to have a similar impact since; political consciousness is largely shaped by what people, and states, hear from various media sources. So just how does media influence foreign policy–and to what lengths? Does international goodwill and cooperation depend on the media, and how could this change in the future? Image: [Pixabay](https://pixabay.com/en/adult-laptop-computer-business-3327336/)

This is the fourth presentation in our Science Literacy series at MIT. Prof. Cziczo provides an overview of the climate change issue and then a critique of geoengineering. He explains the options, and --more importantly—the misinformation that seems to accompany the solar radiation management option in particular. He lists the kinds of questions the public needs to ask in the effort to determine a policy for reducing the CO2 in the atmosphere that is rapidly warning the planet.

Contemporary artist Byron Kim speaks about his captivating life and work, including his unique spin on portraiture. The Worcester Art Museum's Master Series gives a close up look at one or two works by six signature artists. Exhibited in select galleries throughout the Museum, these intimate displays allow for contemplation and study of some of the world's most celebrated artists. Image: [Whitney Museum of American Art](https://whitney.org/WatchAndListen/1333)

Three talented guests participate in this BostonTalks to share what they know about the impact of murals, the importance of music and how even the Patriots can believe in magic!

Very little is known about most of the deep-sea organisms on this planet. Since these organisms represent “extreme life,” they provide potential insights about how life might emerge on other worlds. Dr. Girguis describes innovative studies of some deep-sea organisms, the technological advances that are making these investigations possible, and the exciting collaboration between marine biologists and astrophysicists.

For decades, actress and director Christine Lahti has captivated the hearts and minds of her audience through iconic roles in Chicago Hope, Running on Empty, Housekeeping, Swing Shift, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, God of Carnage, and The Blacklist. Now, in her comical and boldly honest essay collection, Lahti focuses on three major periods of her life: her childhood, her early journey as an actress and activist, and the realities of her life as a middle-aged woman in Hollywood today. Hear a conversation about her book and her coming to age journey. Read about Christine Lahti, ageism, and "disappearing women" [here.](https://medium.com/@ForumNetwork/disappearing-women-nell-painter-and-christine-lahti-e508da6b5271 "Disappearing Women: Nell Painter and Christine Lahti") Image: Book Cover

How can walking & biking connections to the river parklands from Allston, Brookline, and Downtown be part of the MassDOT I-90 Allston Reconstruction? **Discussion includes:** »Wadsworth Path, an at-grade People's Pike path connecting Allston Village, West Station, and Franklin St footbridge »Footbridges over at-grade I-90 »Separated paths on boardwalk/fill in the "throat" »Straightened path under BU Bridge & rebuilt Grand Junction / Soldiers Field Road Bridge

Using Imagine Boston 2030 as a framework, panelists from the planning, design, and development community address how parts of the city’s vision for the future can be achieved using more inclusive and equitable practices to shape the built environment. Designers and developers are playing a significant role in shaping the future of Boston, and who gets a seat at the table impacts more than just how our city looks. We have the chance to play a key role in improving the economic opportunity for all residents, attracting and retaining a more diverse workforce, and creating a stronger, more inclusive future for Boston. Presented by the Boston Society of Architects/AIA (BSA) and DREAM Collaborative.

New England Conservatory Artist Diploma student, In Mo Yang, talks about the theme of Occupation. Yang describes how the pieces he chose to perform connect to not only the immigrant experience but also to his own country's story of being occupied. This is one in a 4-part series at Old South Meeting Hous presented as part of New England Conservatory's Community Performances & Partnerships Program, featuring performers from the school's prestigious Artist Diploma and Graduate Ensemble Training programs. This concert is part of the theme exploring historic and contemporary ideas of "Occupation" as Old South Meeting House marks the 250th anniversary of Boston's military occupation of 1768 Image: [Pexel]( https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-violin-697672/ "Pexel")

Zena Agha is a Palestinian-Iraqi writer, poet, artist and activist from London. She performs her poetry that explores identity, immigration, space and life in the diaspora. Image: [Pexel](https://www.pexels.com/photo/abstract-black-and-white-blur-book-261763/ "Pexel")