Elections 2012

Overview

In anticipation of the November 2012 U.S. elections and the nomination races preceding them, the Elections 2012 Interdisciplinary Study Theme brings together courses from across the curriculum to help frame and inform our understanding of these contests. Included are courses on American politics, economics and public policy, international relations and international economics, history, technology and food. Further enriching these courses are Rosenfield symposia and visitors to campus, both of which will intersect with the curricular offerings. And this interdisciplinary study theme will encourage members of the Grinnell College community to engage in political activity, but to recognize, as well, the valuable learning potential involved in listening to divergent voices and in observing first-hand processes and contests in which they may not be actively involved.

Events

Two already-scheduled Rosenfield symposia - one on social justice, the other on the financial crisis - will intersect with the theme. Further informing the theme include a Scholars' Convocation on September 29, 2011, by Karl Gerth ("Can China Save the World Twice?"), and speakers on imigration and journalism. Faulconer Gallery will host two pertinent exhibitions in fall 2011, one devoted to Chinese proaganda posters, and one on Chinese Print Making. Additionally, the College's Program in Practical Political Education (PPPE), with a rich history of helping to structure partisan political debate and activity, will encourage the community to reflect on the past and to experience the politics of the present.

We will be updating our list of events throughout the year, particularly as we learn candidates' schedules.

Courses

Faculty members have already expressed interest in connecting a variety of courses to the study theme. We expect to add more courses for the 2012-13 academic year.

Fall 2011

Spring 2012

Fall 2012 and Spring 2013

Links

Coming Soon