Campus Connection

[caption id="attachment_382" align="alignright" width="295"] UW-L political science professor to present “The Constitution of 1787: Law vs. politics” from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15 in the Hall of Nations, Centennial Hall, UW-L.[/caption]

Political science professor to give lecture on the U.S. Constitution, politics today

The U.S. Constitution was signed Sept. 17, 1787. Stephen McDougal, UW-L professor of political science, will help the public remember that day and understand the implications of the document in U.S. politics today. He’ll present “The Constitution of 1787: Law vs. politics” from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15 in the Hall of Nations in UW-L’s Centennial Hall, two days prior to Constitution Day. McDougal notes that even the commemoration of the day two days early was once a subject of political debate based on wording in the Constitution. Congress originally mandated that every educational institution receiving federal funds teach about the Constitution on Constitution Day. But when Constitution Day falls on a Saturday, like this year, the literal interpretation of the law would make it harder for school students to attend. So the Department of Education created regulations that allow for more flexibility as to when commemorations can occur. McDougal notes that the Constitution was not intended to answer all of the public’s questions but provide broad principles for guidance. These principles aid political discourse and courtroom debate surrounding topics such as free speech, printing of money and government healthcare. McDougal says while the healthcare controversy may have died in the media, the healthcare bill, and specifically the statutory requirement that every individual purchase it, remains a lively debate in courts. “I want to lay out how political conflict is being played out through constitutional concepts,” says McDougal. “The constitution is a very important part of our politics.” If you go— What: Lecture, “The Constitution of 1787: Law v. Politics” When: 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept.15 Where: Hall of Nations, Centennial Hall, UW-L Admission: Free 7-7:15 p.m. Welcome 7:15-8 Presentation 8-9 Discussion Refreshments will be served Political Science at UW-L Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior; using both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine all countries and regions of the world. Visit UW-L's Political Science and Public Administration Department website.