Scholar society to hold dinner-lectures

Innovations of academic pursuit ranging from music as dialogue to Greek poetry are on the menu of the UW Literary and Philosophical Society Dinner Lecture series this fall.

Music professor Richard Davis, an internationally known bass player and jazz musician and a recording star with a particularly large following in Japan, will give the semester’s first lecture Thursday, Sept. 14, at the University Club, 803 State St. He will discuss “Music as Dialogue: Transcending Culture.”

The case for abolishing campus speech codes will be discussed by political science professor Donald Downs Tuesday, Oct. 10, in Grainger Hall, 975 University Ave.

Speech is again on the agenda Tuesday, Oct. 24, when communication arts professor Stephen Lucas explores “The Trajectory of Democracy: Speeches Past, Speeches Present, and Speeches Future.” His presentation, which will include film clips of famous speeches, will be in the executive dining room of Grainger Hall.

“American Justice: Never Mind the Evidence, Just Look at the Guilt!” will be given by law professor Frank Tuerkheimer Thursday, Nov. 16, at the University Club.

African language and literature professor Harold Scheub will explore storytelling and myths Thursday, Nov. 30, in Grainger Hall’s Capitol Room.

Greek poets and their universal message will be discussed by education policy professor Andreas Kazamias, who is also professor emeritus at University of Athens, Greece. He will present at the University Club Tuesday, Dec. 12.

Each dinner costs $20 for members of the Literary and Philosophical Society and $24 for guests. Each evening starts with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30.
For information, contact Martin Spillane, (608) 256-8113; spillane@facstaff.wisc.edu.