"Do We Really Need a President?"
Friday, September 16, 2016
11:00 a.m.
Deets Library Murray Reference Room

For our 2016 Constitution Day lecture, we are pleased to offer a talk given by our own Dr. Chris Barker, Assistant Professor of Political Science. As we move towards the November 8 presidential election, Dr. Barker asks us to consider a modest proposal: Given the turmoil caused by the historic unpopularity of both major party candidates, and given the difficulty of electing third-party candidates, are we forced to decide between two equally unpalatable choices? Would it be more republican—more consistent with popular government and self-rule—not to have a president at all?

In considering this modest proposal, we will return to September 17, 1787; the hopes and fears of the Founders regarding the appropriate form of government for the newly-independent United States; and the executive branch as it is analyzed and defended by Alexander Hamilton.

Constitution Day is September 17

Many SC students will be eligible to vote in a presidential election for the first time this fall.  As we prepare for the responsibility of electing our leaders, this is a good time to reflect on the Constitution. For those who are unable to attend or who are interested in more information, the U.S. National Archives has a great website about the Constitution.  Dr. Barker’s lecture will be recorded and made available online sometime after the event.