Commentary on Susan Herbst Discussion
by Michael Scott

Susan Herbst’s visit to the Carnegie Library was a breath of fresh air. She reminded me of a set of Russian Nesting Dolls where hidden within each figure was a new and ever more charming surprise. At one layer she is a member of the Georgia Board of Regents. At another she is a professor of public policy at The Georgia Institute of Technology. At yet another she is the newly minted President of the University of Connecticut. Thirdly, she is an engaging and affable young woman who became concerned that her students were reluctant to share their ideas about politics and theory and the direction of the country even in the context of a college class devoted to such inquiry.

She conducted a survey of what her students thought about political debate, as any true academic would, and found that they often lacked the intellectual tools to prepare cogent and compelling arguments in behalf or and in defense of their positions. They expressed their discomfort in disagreeing with fellow students over principles and perspectives. The only issue that most had every argued was whether Tech should run the triple option or move to a more pro style offense.

One of her solutions, mentioned in the book was to encourage debate in middle and high schools; To train students to be contending but not necessarily contentious. Furthermore, classes in critical thinking and the history of political debate in America should be encouraged.

One final doll: While not impossibly rare it is surprising when an author is also a fun and entertaining speaker. Susan Herbst’s final doll was a great presentation and a nimble handler of questions.