The Aspen Institute Courses

The Cold War in Africa

Explore the geopolitical competition for influence and resources in Africa, examining the stakes, potential outcomes, and impacts on global alliances and the continent itself.

• YouTube
• 51 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Museums: An Antidote to Culture Wars - Exploring Art's Role in Social Progress

Explore how museums can unite people and spark important conversations through art, provocation, and joy in this interactive dialogue with Brooklyn Museum's director.

• YouTube
• 55 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The AI Dilemma - Risks and Challenges of Advanced AI Tools

Explore the risks and ethical concerns surrounding AI deployment, focusing on ChatGPT, with insights from tech experts on closing the gap between public perception and insider knowledge.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 9 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Economic Realities of the Energy Transition

Exploring the complex dynamics of global energy transition, including challenges in renewable technology and the ongoing dependence on oil trade in Middle Eastern economies.

• YouTube
• 1 hour
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Wealth, Generosity, and the Good Society

Explore philosophical and religious teachings on wealth, examining their relevance to modern economic challenges and the role of philanthropy in creating a just society.

• YouTube
• 47 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

No Longer Sci-Fi - The Tech That Will Shape Our Future

Explore emerging technologies like satellite internet, autonomous vehicles, and personal robots with Amazon's Dave Limp and The Verge's Nilay Patel as they discuss innovations shaping our present and future.

• YouTube
• 48 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

How Philanthropy Can Drive Change in Public Education

Explore how modern philanthropy impacts educational opportunity, examining effective giving models and opportunities for private funding to make significant differences in public education.

• YouTube
• 54 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Power of Narrative Adventure

Explore the impact of storytelling with insights from an audiobook pioneer and a theoretical physicist, delving into the art of capturing human experiences through compelling narratives.

• YouTube
• 47 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Designing Decarbonization: Strategies for a Net-Zero Future

Explore strategies for achieving net-zero emissions, including data collection, private sector initiatives, and policy measures like carbon tax, while addressing environmental justice and biodiversity concerns.

• YouTube
• 50 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Youth in Action - Centering Young Leaders' Role in Protecting Climate

Inspiring young leaders discuss innovative solutions, activism, and community resilience for climate protection, highlighting the urgent work being done to ensure a thriving planet for future generations.

• YouTube
• 47 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Leading with Creativity and Purpose - A Conversation with NGO Leaders

Explore how NGO leaders drive organizational change, balancing creativity and purpose to address modern challenges and opportunities in this insightful conversation.

• YouTube
• 56 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Astonishing Effects of Exercise on the Brain

Explore the profound impact of physical activity on brain function, from reducing anxiety to enhancing memory and joy. Learn science-based tools to improve cognitive performance through exercise.

• YouTube
• 51 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Race and Water Equity - Conversations on Food Justice

Exploring the intersection of race, water access, and food justice, examining historical discrimination in water infrastructure and policy, and highlighting community efforts to address water equity issues.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 1 minute
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Wicked Problem - Immigration — The Road Ahead

Explore the complex issue of immigration policy in the US, examining economic, security, and humanitarian aspects to shape a balanced approach for the future.

• YouTube
• 38 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The Dilemmas of Hostage Diplomacy

Explore the complexities of hostage diplomacy with experts discussing strategies for citizen recovery and prevention of future captures, balancing national security and humanitarian concerns.

• YouTube
• 57 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video