As the world goes through an unprecedented new phase of economic upheaval, a deeper analysis of materialism as the root cause of the extremes of wealth and poverty has taken on new urgency. Such an analysis involves two fundamental questions. What is the difference between "materialism," which is hazardous, and "material prosperity," which is a worthy individual and social goal? What is the most effective mode of leadership for moving society beyond materialism and facilitating the achievement of true material prosperity? It may be argued that the best mode of leadership in pursuit of shared material prosperity would be one that reflects compassion, caring, nurturing, communal behaviour, and effective communication, all of which have traditionally been associated with the feminine aspects of human society. Participants are invited to reimagine new leadership models in the context of a nascent awareness of the need to balance the feminine and the masculine in all areas of human endeavour, including the creation of a more equitable economic system.

Roya Akhavan is a member of the Baha’i Faith. She currently serves as Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the Department of Mass Communications, St. Cloud State University. Dr. Akhavan is a frequent speaker on global issues at national and international forums and on radio and television programmes. She has lived and worked in four different cultures: Persian, American, Japanese, and Chinese. Her most recent publication is a book entitled, Peace for Our Planet: A New Approach. To view the video visit the YouTube channel https://youtu.be/xkWYeNmjkfs