Monday, October 08, 2007

Wilmington, N.C. - Merle Black, a nationally-recognized political analyst and author, has been selected as the keynote speaker for the 2007 University of North Carolina Wilmington Political Science Days. Black, professor of politics and government at Emory University, is one of the foremost experts on national politics, especially on the regional political activity of the Southern United States. His talk, "Southern Politics and Divided America," takes place at 7 p.m. on Oct. 11 in the King Hall Auditorium at UNCW.

A Harvard University graduate and former UNC-Chapel Hill professor, Black has authored numerous acclaimed books, many with his brother, Earl Black. He most recently co-wrote Divided America: The Ferocious Power Struggle in American Politics.

"The national media often turns to the Black brothers for insight into the crucial dimensions of contemporary politics," says Roger Lowery, chair of the UNCW Department of Public and International Affairs. The New York Times, The Wall St. Journal, Time Magazine, ABC World News Tonight, C‑SPAN and CNN have featured Black as an expert.

During his visit to UNC Wilmington, Black will explore the historical significance of the struggle between Republicans and Democrats and the vital role the Southern region plays in national elections. "Changes in partisan control can seriously affect millions of people in the United States and even larger numbers elsewhere in the world," says Black. "The parties have become more ideologically homogenous than ever before. They can survive in their bases because they promote candidates who reflect the beliefs and priorities of the voters in a regional stronghold."

UNC Wilmington Political Science Days are a group of rigorous events designed to equip students to effectively utilize and market political science degrees. Students have the opportunity to interact with lawyers and government professionals and participate in relevant forums and community members can take advantage of Black's unique lecture.

Media contacts:

Chardon Groveman, Department of Public and International Affairs, at clm8920@uncw.edu.

Joy Davis, UNCW Marketing and Communications, at 910.962.3616 or davisjc@uncw.edu.