The Malim Harding Lecture 2024 with Professor Suzanne Mettler

Register today to attend the C. Malim Harding Lecture in Political Economy 2024 by Professor Suzanne Mettler. Professor Mettler is the John L. Senior Professor of American Institutions and will discuss “Polarizing by Place: How the U.S. Rural-Urban Divide Emerged and Why It Threatens Democracy.”

Rural and urban Americans used to vote according to similar patterns in presidential elections, but they started to diverge in the 1990s with rural Americans supporting the Republican party across all regions of the country. Since rural and urban Americans don’t differ sharply in terms of their views on policy issues, what is behind this polarization and what threats does the divide pose to American democracy?

Professor Mettler conducts research and teaches on American politics and public policy. Her research and teaching focus on American political development, public policy, and political behavior. She is particularly interested in issues pertaining to democracy (both democratization and backsliding), inequality, and citizenship. Mettler’s latest book is Four Threats: The Recurring Crises of American Democracy, co-authored with Robert C. Lieberman.

The lecture will be held in Seeley Hall, Trinity College with a reception to follow from 5-6 pm.