Professor of Political Science, Jason Neidleman, helped promote awareness and discussions on social justice and human dignity last month at a lecture series put on by the University of Notre Dame.

The lecture series and events, “Rousseau 2012 and Dignity: Are We Just Yet?,” culminated in a three month-long celebration of the political philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s 300th birthday anniversary.

Neidleman joined faculty from Harvard University, Boston College and University of Lausanne (Switzerland) to present lectures on the themes of “Dignity” and “A Person’s Worth” at the Annenberg Auditorium at the Snite Museum of Art.

Neidleman’s lecture, “Rousseau and Religious Liberty” focused on the importance of maximizing personal liberty and civic unity, and basic values – ideals that Rousseau inspired.

“The program is a wonderful model of what higher education should be, where scholars speak to students and the broader community with attention to a defined vision or set of values,” said Neidleman.

Neidleman said the faculty members at Notre Dame were encouraged to incorporate Rousseau’s themes of dignity and values into their classrooms over the course of a year.

Being a faculty member at a values-centered institution of higher learning, Neidleman noticed a correlation with the values of upheld by the University of Notre Dame and the University of La Verne.

“What stood out for me the most was the academic lectures were tied not only to Rousseau, but also to the values of the University of La Verne: dignity and unity,” said Neidleman.

In all, lectures presented by scholars, musical performances and photography exhibits made up the core of events to celebrate Rousseau and his ideals.

To learn more, visit: http://sniteartmuseum.nd.edu./publications/images/dignity-Study-Guide.pdf

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