Friday Talks with Deschutes Public Library
Fridays, May 17 and June 21
OLLI-UO in Central Oregon is partnering with Deschutes Public Library to offer free public lectures at the Downtown Bend Library on select Fridays in 2024. All lectures will take place in the Brooks Room. Registration is not required. Central Oregon members are encouraged to invite guests!
Ukraine vs. Russia: The Return of History
Friday, May 17, 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Description
At the end of the Cold War, many around the world felt that aggressive territorial conquests between advanced states and great power rivalry were things of the past. Yet Russia shocked the world in February 2022 with its brazen and brutal invasion of Ukraine, sparking the largest general war in Europe since 1945. Join COCC history professor Murray Godfrey where he will discuss the history of Ukraine and its place in the history of Europe, the 20th century World Wars, the Cold War, and now possibly the new Cold War of the 21st century in the context of this latest conflict.
About the Presenter
Murray A. Godfrey is Associate Professor of History at Central Oregon Community College where he has taught since 2012. He received a Master of Arts degree in History from Texas State University specializing in the history of Early America, Native American military history, and the political economy of Colonial America. Prior to coming to Central Oregon, Murray previously taught for Austin Community College in Austin, TX and Alamo Community College District in San Antonio, TX. Mr. Godfrey served in the U.S. Army from 2002-2008. As part of that service, he was deployed to Kosovo as part of Operation Joint Guardian where he served alongside Ukrainian soldiers.
Location
The Alpha Male Fallacy: Why Humans Are Not Chimps
Friday, June 21, 10:00—11:30 a.m.
Description
Step into a fascinating exploration of the social intricacies that connect us with our primate counterparts. Join Dr. Michel Waller for a look at the intriguing parallels between non-human primate social hierarchies and our own human dynamics. Until recently, terms like "alpha" and "beta" were confined to the realm of non-human animals, describing their societal roles within rigid hierarchies. Dr. Waller delves into the recent shift that associates these terms with males showcasing masculine traits, leadership qualities, and sexual prowess. But here's the question: Is this application truly fitting? Challenge your preconceptions and reconsider the appropriateness of these terms in our understanding of human social dynamics.
About ThE Presenter
Dr. Michel Waller, with a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Oregon, brings over 20 years of extensive experience in researching and teaching in the field of primates. His field studies include chimpanzee/human interactions in Senegal and bonobo/human interactions in the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo. Dr. Waller studies primate socioecology and behavior to better understand the spectrum of factors that have shaped early human evolution. His research has focused on ranging behavior, territoriality, aggression, and tolerance. Dr. Waller is currently an Associate Professor of Anthropology at Central Oregon Community College.
Location
Friday Talks with Deschutes Public Library
OLLI-UO in Central Oregon is partnering with Deschutes Public Library to offer free public lectures at the Downtown Bend Library on select Fridays in 2024.
All lectures will take place in the Brooks Room. Registration is not required. Central Oregon members are encouraged to invite guests!
