Although this isn't a topic that I would have chosen originally, I think that it will be very useful to have some knowledge about the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba and their economy, especially with the embargoes being lifted. If/When the embargoes are lifted and trade begins to open up again between Cuba and the U.S., it will have a profound effect on the economies of both countries. It will also make the political relationship between the two countries much better and create less tension. As the next generation of workers and, potentially, politicians, the relationship between our countries will directly effect our lives in ways that previous generations have not experiences before. In terms of the benefit of a discussion like this, we can only benefit. It is hard to find a way that learning more about the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba will be detrimental to us other than the possibility of our relationship going bad after changes in Cuba.
Regarding power, the Castro family has held it for decades. They have controlled almost every aspect of power in Cuba and the lives of its citizens. The Castro family may soon lose their power and allow for new leadership to change Cuba, hopefully for the better. I don't know too much about this topic at the moment, but it is a very interesting one. I think that because of the potential importance of what all happen in Cuba, I will be very inclined to learn more about it and present information to the class that is useful and pertinent to our lives.
-Harry Gooding