Faculty

"For many years my research has focused on the Christian right. After writing a book on the Christian right and the Republican party, I shifted my focus to the Christian right's global activism. I am currently beginning a very different project: a study of how Midwestern cities are responding to the social and economic challenges posed by globalization."

"I am fascinated by the processes of democratization and development in politically transitioning states. My research and teaching focus on understanding how these processes work, and how international actors and non-governmental organizations may influence them."

"I am broadly interested in the psychology of political behavior, both of the masses and elites. My recent work has focused on voting behavior and emotions."

"My research focuses on changing American roles in the new world order. The U.S. faces a dilemma as a single superpower in a chaotic multipolar world. It must choose between interventionism (philosophically or security driven) and isolationism (similarly motivated). I discuss these choices and their possible ramifications in my current writings. I also study the rise of Christian fundamentalism as a political and social movement in the U.S."

"Throughout my career, I have been interested in people's attempts to radically transform their societies, why those attempts sometimes succeed, and what impact participating in such movements has on the participants."

"My most recent publications focus on the Supreme Court of the United States and the Religion Clauses, the Court's treatment of precedent, and competing theories of constitutional interpretation. I have recently completed an article entitled "Justice Breyer's Pragmatic Jurisprudence." The two most important things that define an excellent teacher are a deep commitment to students and love of the subject matter. I seek to combine these qualities with research and publishing in areas that are closely related to the courses I teach. Another key ingredient in the college classroom is a sense of humor."