The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for the Social Sciences at Dartmouth College provides a rich curriculum designed to engage students and the public in critical discussions on pressing social, economic, and political issues. This course features an array of unique modules, each led by experts in their respective fields, providing insight into the complexities of society and governance.
The modules cover a wide range of topics including:
Students will have the opportunity to engage with high-profile speakers, participate in lively discussions, and delve into significant themes such as:
By participating in this course, students will enhance their understanding of the intricate interplay between economics, policy, and society, ultimately preparing them for future leadership roles.
William Fischel presents a detailed analysis of the economic evolution of American school districts. This module explores the historical context, current challenges, and future directions of educational policy in the United States.
Dr. Paul Stockton discusses how to prepare for national catastrophes, drawing on his experience as Assistant Secretary of Defense. He provides insights into strategies for effective crisis management and national security.
This Constitution Day program features Ronald G. Shaiko discussing the role of interest groups and lobbying in shaping government policy, emphasizing the First Amendment's influence on democracy and civic engagement.
Anna Post, a prominent etiquette expert, discusses business etiquette in the digital age, highlighting how technology has transformed professional interactions and the importance of maintaining professionalism in a digital world.
This module features a video showcasing President Jim Kim's initial interactions with Rockefeller Center students, reflecting on leadership and the importance of community engagement in higher education.
Gordon Zacks presents arguments supporting Israel's right to defend itself amidst ongoing conflicts. He discusses the case for preemptive actions and the strategic implications for international relations.
This panel discussion, moderated by Marjorie Rose, addresses the threats posed by national debt, featuring experts who analyze the economic implications and potential solutions to ensure America's financial stability.
This panel discussion delves into the historical contexts and motivations behind the Constitution of 1787, featuring distinguished historians sharing their perspectives on its enduring significance in American governance.
Douglas Irwin and Matthew J. Slaughter analyze the Obama Administration's trade policy, assessing its implications for domestic and international economics, and questioning whether it represents a shift or continuity in approach.
Sonu Bedi examines the concept of rights within governance, challenging existing frameworks and proposing new ways to understand the debate surrounding civil liberties and individual rights in modern society.
Stephen J. Morse discusses the intersection of neuroscience and law, addressing the implications of scientific advancements on concepts of criminal responsibility and legal accountability in contemporary society.
Nancy Polikoff addresses the legal recognition of diverse family structures, advocating for equal treatment of all families under the law while exploring the socio-political implications of marriage equality.
David Leonhardt discusses economic recovery in the context of the Obama Administration, offering insights into the challenges and strategies employed to address the recession's impact on American families.
Former congressman Marvin Dawson Mathis shares insights on the current political landscape, reflecting on leadership and the challenges of governance in today's complex environment.
Michele Goodwin discusses the intersections of faith, class, and race in contemporary markets, addressing social inequalities and advocating for systemic change in these areas.
Experts analyze the outcomes and consequences of the 2008 elections, discussing the political landscape and its implications for governance and policy decisions moving forward.
Andrew Samwick and a panel of economists discuss the financial meltdown, exploring its causes, effects, and policy responses necessary for economic recovery and sustainability.
This video commemorates the 25th anniversary of the Rockefeller Center, celebrating its contributions to public policy, education, and community engagement at Dartmouth College.
Judge Jed Rakoff explores the complex relationship between science and law, discussing how advancements in scientific understanding challenge traditional legal frameworks and accountability.
Randall Kennedy discusses the historical and contemporary significance of Thaddeus Stevens' contributions to racial equality, emphasizing the importance of moral leadership in the pursuit of justice.
Nicholas Christakis discusses a major study on social networks and obesity, revealing how social connections influence individual health choices and overall community well-being.
Mari Matsuda highlights the effects of poverty on public education, advocating for systemic changes to address educational disparities faced by low-income communities.
Mark McClellan discusses universal health care, exploring its benefits and challenges while advocating for a health care system that is accessible and equitable for all.
Richard Parsons shares insights on entrepreneurship in the digital age, discussing how the internet has transformed business opportunities and enabled innovation without large capital requirements.
Richard Norton Smith discusses lesser-known aspects of Nelson Rockefeller's life, shedding light on his political career and influence on American governance during a transformative era.
Christine Todd Whitman reflects on Nelson Rockefeller's lasting impact on contemporary politics, analyzing the principles of Rockefeller Republicanism and its relevance in todayâs political landscape.
This diverse panel, moderated by Ron Schram, discusses evolving leadership practices and the lessons learned from past experiences to prepare future leaders for modern challenges.
Anne Mulcahy shares her experiences as Chairman of Xerox Corporation, emphasizing the importance of leadership and entrepreneurship in navigating business challenges effectively.
Dr. David S.C. Chu addresses the complexities of defense management, drawing from his experiences to discuss strategic planning and resource allocation in national security.
Jensen Lowe shares his experience as a recipient of the Class of 1964 internship program, highlighting how hands-on learning can enhance academic and professional growth.
Stephanie McHenry discusses the role of banking in creating jobs and empowering communities, advocating for approaches that prioritize social impact and economic development.
Melanie Sloan explores the challenges of governmental oversight, asking critical questions about accountability and transparency in public institutions.
Nancy Rosenblum discusses partisanship and its moral implications, highlighting the ethical dimensions of party affiliation and its impact on governance and civic life.
Thomas A. Barnico examines the intersection of world trade and states' rights, discussing contemporary challenges to sovereignty in the context of globalization.
This module presents Democratic Debates at Dartmouth College, fostering student engagement in the democratic process while encouraging critical discussions on contemporary political issues.
Barbara Kellerman discusses the importance of leadership literacy in contemporary society, exploring why understanding leadership is crucial for effective governance and civic participation.
Sydney J. Freedberg Jr. shares insights from his work on the "Policy at the Sharp End" project, discussing the experiences of veterans and the importance of listening to their perspectives.
Leah Platt Boustan discusses the historical significance of Black migration and its transformative effects on Northern cities during the 20th century, analyzing socio-economic impacts and community structures.
Amini Kajunju discusses the role of education and entrepreneurship as powerful tools for social change, advocating for community-driven initiatives that empower individuals and transform lives.
Fred Karger addresses the current political landscape, exploring the decline of moderate voices in politics and advocating for a balanced approach to governance and civic engagement.
Michael McConnell examines the evolution of freedom of association in American law, discussing its implications for civil liberties and collective action in contemporary society.
Bethany Rubin Henderson discusses strategies for engaging millennials in local governance, advocating for innovative approaches that encourage participation and enhance civic responsibility.
Ezra Klein discusses the complexities of the political process in Washington, analyzing how the interplay of various actors shapes policy outcomes and governance.
John T. Broderick, Jr. discusses the role of judges in leadership, reflecting on his experiences as Chief Justice and the importance of judicial leadership in shaping legal outcomes.
Nazila Fathi shares her experiences as a foreign correspondent, discussing the uprisings in Egypt and Iran while analyzing the similarities and differences in their sociopolitical contexts.
Sandra Salas discusses the role of art in mobilizing social justice movements, highlighting her initiative "Peace of Art" and its impact on community engagement and activism.
James Wright delivers a Veterans Day lecture, reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members throughout history and the importance of honoring their contributions to society.
David Walker explores Americaâs fiscal challenges, discussing the critical choices that will determine the nation's financial future and the sustainability of the American Dream.
Oona A. Hathaway addresses the relationship between the President, Congress, and international lawmaking, discussing accountability and legitimacy within the context of U.S. foreign affairs.
Erica Chenoweth discusses her research on civil resistance, highlighting its effectiveness compared to violent insurgency and the conditions that foster successful nonviolent movements.
Dr. Peter Orszag discusses the new U.S. political economy, analyzing trends and challenges facing the economy while providing insights into potential policy solutions for sustainable growth.
Two former Congresswomen offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of Congress in this engaging critique, discussing the challenges facing legislative bodies in contemporary governance.
E. Duncan Getchell, Jr. discusses the ongoing healthcare litigation in the U.S., focusing on states' rights and the challenges posed by legislation surrounding the Affordable Care Act.
This forum discusses sustainability and solvency in American health care, featuring expert panelists who analyze the challenges and potential solutions for a more sustainable healthcare system.
Brian Walsh reflects on 25 years of democratic lessons learned at the local level, discussing the importance of participation in governance and the evolution of local democracy.
Eric Rauchway discusses the origins of the Bretton Woods system, analyzing the historical context and decisions that shaped the global economy during the mid-20th century.