Power to the People! Tribute to Rousseau continues May 2
 Jean-Jacques Rousseau |
The spring Arts and Sciences Brown Bag Series concludes on Wednesday, May 2, at noon in the Horizon Room with a panel discussion titled, “Rousseau at 300,” exploring the lasting impact of the 18th century philosopher. The presentation is the culmination of a semester-long series of lunchtime talks, “‘On Education’: A Tribute to Jean-Jacques Rousseau,” commemorating the 300th anniversary of the birth of the philosopher, writer and composer.
The writings of Rousseau influenced the French Revolution as well as the overall development of modern political, sociological and educational thought. Rousseau is the author of Emile, or On Education and the "Social Contract" treatise. The Social Contract was a progressive work that helped inspire political reforms or revolutions in Europe, especially in France. It argued against the idea that monarchs were divinely empowered to legislate. Instead, as Rousseau asserts, only the people have that all-powerful right.
Panelists will be Dr. Andrew Cullison, assistant professor of philosophy; Dr. Cynthia Jones, adjunct instructor of modern languages; and, Dr. David Kaplan, assistant professor of English. Dr. Birger Vanwesenbeck, assistant professor of English, will moderate.
The lecture is free and open to all campus and community members. Classes are welcome. This year’s series is directed by Teodora Cox, mathematical sciences; Jack Croxton, psychology; Laura Johnson, communication; and, Theodore Lee, biology.
The Arts and Sciences Brown Bag Series is sponsored by the Fredonia College Foundation’s Carnahan-Jackson Humanities Fund; Dr. John Kijinski, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; and, the Faculty Student Association.
