Robinson to Speak on "The Virtues of Constitutional Democracy"

"The Virtues of Constitutional Democracy" is the title of a lecture to be given by Smith College professor of government Donald L. Robinson at 4:30 p.m. Monday, November 30, in Stoddard Auditorium.

Drawing upon Robinson's recent research on the emergence of Japan as a modern nation, the lecture will explore the adaptability and limits of the constitutional ideal in non-Western settings.

"Constitutional democracy developed in the Judeo-Christian West," says Robinson. "In the 20th century, especially since World War II, it is being tried by nations grounded in other cultures."

The lecture, which is free and open to the public, is part of the series, "Three by Three," which presents lectures by the college's three recently chaired professors. Robinson has been named the Charles N. Clark Professor of Government. A reception follows the lecture in the Alumnae House Living Room.

Robinson, who has written extensively on constitutional history, recently authored "The Constitution of Japan: a Documentary History of the Framing and Adoption," published by Princeton University Press. He has been a professor of government and American studies at Smith for more than 20 years.

The lecture series is sponsored by the Smith College Office of the President. The final lecture in the series, "A Musicology of the Everyday," will be presented by Sophia Smith Professor of Music Ruth A. Solie on April 12, 1999.