As the anniversary of last year's terrorist attacks on America approaches, the University community plans to host a teach-in to address new concerns that arose over the past year.
The teach-in will be held Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 6-8 p.m. in the Amphitheater and will feature William Quandt, vice provost for international affairs; David Waldner, associate politics professor and director of the Middle Eastern Studies Program; Anthropology Prof. Hanan Sabea and History Prof. Elizabeth Thompson.
"The purpose is not merely to look back on Sept. 11, but to analyze it critically and to learn from it," said Daniel Haspel, Student Council academic affairs committee chairman and event organizer.
Each professor will begin with a five to 10 minute introduction followed by a panel discussion that will answer questions from the audience for the remainder of the time.
"I welcome the opportunity to speak to lots of people and hear their views outside of the classroom setting," Waldner said. "It's not a time for experts to lecture but to facilitate open debate," he later added.
The cross-section of University professors will discuss topics such as the cultural and political consequences of the attacks, current world events and U.S. foreign policy, particularly concerning the Bush administration's intentions toward Iraq.
"We're hoping to accomplish some of the things the teach-in did last year as well as taking a more forward-looking approach," Council Chief of Staff Sarah Jobe said.
Last year, University professors organized a teach-in that was held two days after the Sept. 11 attacks. Four additional teach-ins also were held throughout the year.
This unique format provides for a level of interaction between the students, faculty and community members that would be difficult to achieve in a simple lecture.
"In a democracy, even when it comes to foreign policy, citizens have an obligation to be involved," Waldner said.
Council organized this year's event to facilitate an academic discussion to coincide with memorials and vigils.
"I think it's just as important this year as last, if not more," said Andrew Bond, co-chairman of the resident staff program.
Bond attended the first teach-in last year to educate himself and "provide a forum for my residents to be educated as well." He also plans to attend the Sept. 10 teach-in.
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