By James P. Sterba (NHC Fellow, 2001–02) Racial preferences are among the most contentious issues in our society, touching on fundamental questions of fairness and the proper role of racial categories in government action. In this volume, two contemporary philosophers, in a lively debate, lay out the arguments on each side. Carl Cohen, a key … Continued
By John Higham (NHC Fellow, 1987–88; 1988–89) This book presents three decades of writings by one of America’s most distinguished historians. John Higham, renowned for his influential works on immigration, ethnicity, political symbolism, and the writing of history, here traces the changing contours of American culture since its beginnings, focusing on the ways that an … Continued
Benjamin Franklin thought America had an immigration problem in 1751. “Why,” he lamented, “should Pennsylvania, founded by the English, become a Colony of Aliens?” If Franklin resented “aliens,” many of them loathed people like him, whom they considered British, and they resisted the cultural and political dominance the British claimed. Who were these “aliens?” How … Continued
This webinar explores the place of California within North American and United States history. From early modern representations of California as an island to the state’s peculiar role in the coming of the Civil War, and from the railroad West to the global influence of California’s economy and culture, our work together will range broadly … Continued
Community college teacher Julie Mullis describes how a classroom experience with students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives created a memorable and “multi-colored” sense of place and belonging. The conversations and debates that took place in a Humanities 122 class illuminated a profound truth for Mullis and her students: “we all had this common strand of … Continued
Librarian Deborah Jung describes the moment she discovered libraries and the riches they offer, which fueled her passion for opening the world of literature to children. For Jung, finding a library as a child was like “going to heaven.” The beauty of Madeleine L’Engle’s writing introduced her to the world of science fiction, a genre … Continued