CYCLES OF AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT

Professor Kobylka's lectures use political theory and philosophy, either written as such or derived from speeches or even events, as a lens through which to view American history. The result proves illuminating, with much to say about contemporary debates. The lectures have a well-rehearsed, sometimes even studied, quality, and the occasional well-worn jokes seem perfunctory. But they are true lectures, thought through as they are spoken. The professor's voice is adequate; stumbles and mispronounced words occur, but seldom. The material is cogent, instructive, and generally entertaining, and the lectures themselves are clear, well organized, and well paced. An interesting and intellectually stimulating course. W.M. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 07]