One Day University: Three Great Professors in Just One Day

Enjoy three fascinating lectures in just one day:

Why Politicians Behave the Way They Do    

Professor William Burke-White, University of Pennsylvania   

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

How have our leaders both past and present understood the world around them, and how have those understandings shaped American foreign policy through the years? This lecture explores the basic theories of international relations and considers how theoretical frameworks—including realism, institutionalism, constructivism, and liberalism—have shaped the worldview of America's leaders. Participants will consider the policies of America's presidents and secretaries of state, from George Washington and George W. Bush to Henry Kissinger and Hillary Clinton.

Why Public Opinion Polls Are So Often Wrong    

Professor Jennifer Lawless, American University

10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Why have politicians, policy makers, and pundits come to rely so heavily on public opinion polls? How do pollsters and analysts such as Nate Silver use public opinion data to generate their conclusions? And why are Americans so disgruntled when the pollsters get it wrong? Professor Lawless will explain the common pitfalls associated with gathering “snapshots” of what Americans are thinking while ultimately underscoring the value of polling, statistical evidence, and careful analysis.

Two Movies Every Film Lover Should See

Professor Marc Lapadula, Yale University      

Noon – 1 p.m.

It's nearly impossible to count the number of movies that have been released in the United States since the dawn of the film industry. So imagine how difficult it would be to identify the best two! Yale Film Professor Marc Lapadula will discuss his top two choices, show film clips, and explain his criteria: great stories and performances, character development, direction, editing, and box office success.