WHAT:

Boston University professor, renowned social scientist and author Liah Greenfeld, Ph.D., will receive the 2008 UAB Ireland Distinguished Visiting Scholar Prize from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). As the visiting scholar, she will present a free, public lecture, “Madness in Modern Society: A Key to the Mind?” Call 205-996-7190 for more information.

WHEN:

5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 5

WHERE:

Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall, 1200 10th Ave. S.

BACKGROUND:

Greenfeld is renowned as a theorist of nationalism and she specializes in the analysis of modern culture. She is now studying modern culture and mental disease between 1500 and 1900 in an effort to account for the rise in the rates of mental disorders in Britain, France, Germany, Russia and the United States. Her research indicates that modern societies, produced by nationalism, emphasize secularism, openness and the elevation of the individual and may play a role in causing mental illness.

This research represents the third state in her investigation of modern culture, which has focused on social structure, politics and the economy. Greenfeld’s books include “Nationalism and the Mind: Essays on Modern Culture” (2006) and “The Spirit of Capitalism: Nationalism and Economic Growth” (2001).

Greenfeld is a professor of political science and sociology at Boston University. She directs the university’s Institute for the Advancement of the Social Sciences.

As the UAB Ireland Distinguished Visiting Scholar, Greenfeld also will visit the UAB campus to meet with students and faculty. The Ireland Award brings internationally renowned scholars in the arts and sciences to UAB to present a public lecture, attend a dinner in their honor and participate in campus activities. The prize is made possible through an endowment established by Caroline F. and Charles W. Ireland.