What is Great Decisions?

Great Decisions is the name of a briefing book and a program that are used to engage citizens in learning about the world.

This section answers frequently asked questions about starting a Great Decisions discussion group and leading discussions.  Access the free PDF versions of the Program Handbook and Tips for Discussion Leaders guide.

Starting a Discussion Group

The Great Decisions Discussion Program is the core of FPA's civic outreach efforts, bringing millions of Americans together in study groups to discuss, debate and learn about foreign policy issues.

Learn how to start a discussion group by reading our Program Handbook. Read valuable suggestions for leading a discussion in our Tips for Discussion Leaders guide. Find out how other discussion groups conduct their programs by reading the Great Decisions Across the Nation series of articles.

Great Decisions Across the Nation

Each of the "Great Decisions Across the Nation" articles illustrates how different individuals, groups or organizations participate in Great Decisions.

Because the program is flexible, there are many approaches for organizing discussions about international issues. Read more about Great Decisions participants.

Program Materials

Great Decisions materials can be used by indivuduals, teachers, students and discussion participants to learn more about the world.

National Opinion Ballot Report

The National Opinion Ballot Report (NOBR) features tabulation of opinion ballots submitted by participants in the Great Decisions program. Since 1955, opinion ballots for each topic have been included with Great Decisions to enable those interested to make their views known to the U.S. public, policymakers and other Great Decisions participants.  Read the current NOBR or read results from previous years.

Topics

Each year, the Great Decisions editorial board selects eight of the most pressing global issues and regions that will be the focus of the briefing book, television programs and online resources.

In the classroom

Great Decisions In the Classroom has been developed to engage and support educators and students who are committed to teaching and learning about international affairs.

FAQ

Have a question about Great Decisions? We hope you will find the answer here. But if you don't, please contact us to find out how you can be part of America's longest running global affairs program.

National Opinion Balloting Online

Participate in the Great Decisions national opinion balloting poll! Opinion ballots can now be filled out electronically or you can download additional ballots that can be mailed to FPA.

Great Decisions 2007 in French

Join a Great Decisions Discussion Group in French!

Great Decisions Television on PBS

Great Decisions Television Series

Now in its 23rd season, the Great Decisions Television Series is the longest running television program devoted solely to international affairs and foreign policy. Now airing in High Definition.

National Opinion Ballot Report 2006

The National Opinion Ballot Report 2006 features tabulation of opinion ballots submitted by participants in the Great Decisions program. Since 1954, opinion ballots for each topic have been included with Great Decisions to enable those interested to make their views known to the U.S. public, policymakers and other Great Decisions participants.