We'll continue the "Political Thinkers" series. It critically examines the political and ideological viewpoints of prominent public figures, considered to be tremendously influential as a trendsetter.
Here, the goal is to discuss fresh viewpoints -- some of which might be "unconventional" in nature -- in analyzing its applicability in our ever-increasingly complex society. Just like every issue that our group discusses, we examine and evaluate it with an independent and critical lens, at the highest level of intellectual rigor.
For this discussion, we'll evaluate the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass, including:
▨ His role as the most influential African-American of the Nineteenth Century.
▨ His role as a national leader of the abolitionist movement.
▨ His work and advocacy on behalf of other reform causes, including: women's rights, land reform, public education, and the abolition of capital punishment.
▨ His role as an influential intellectual, with emphasis on agitation and antagonism of the institutional status quo.
▨ His wide appeal to the both modern day Conservatives and Progressives.
▨ Finally, we'll evaluate how his complex personal life shaped his outlook and his legacy.
