Dornsife Dialogues

Marking the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 75th anniversary, USC Dornsife scholars examine the transatlantic alliance’s evolution from a Cold War bulwark to its current role. Is it time to strengthen, transform, or even retire it?

Our political science and global security scholars convened for a critical dialogue on NATO's relevance and future as the next U.S. presidential election approaches. 
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Join us for a compelling discussion on the enduringly popular playwright, William Shakespeare. Four centuries after his final curtain call, his influence still resonates deeply in our culture, our language, and our understanding of human nature.

We'll explore the man behind the myth, the truths and misconceptions that have shaped his portrayal in popular culture, how race influences the interpretation of his plays, an...

In this age of constant connectivity, social media has become more than just a means of expressing ourselves and connecting with others. The powerful algorithms that underpin these platforms are shaping how we communicate with others, what information we take in, and our perceptions of events (and ourselves). Its pervasive presence has brought a maze of challenges that have impacted our mental well-being.

Join us for an en...

In a groundbreaking shift, more voters now identify as independent than with any specific political party. This evolution is predominantly driven by millennials and Gen Z voters, who often prioritize issues over party allegiance. Many people also feel a growing disconnect or disillusionment with the traditional parties.

Join us for an enlightening discussion regarding the profound implications of this pivotal change. How c...

Dive deep into the shadows of cinema with us as we explore the captivating world of horror films. Originating from the haunting tales of the late 1800s, the horror genre has not only stood the test of time but has flourished, spawning billion-dollar franchises and passionate fan conventions. But beyond the spine-tingling suspense and heart-pounding scares, what deeper truths do these films unveil about our society?

Discove...

We hear a lot about how automation will reshape human life in the age of artificial intelligence. From revolutionary new techniques in health care to job losses in creative industries, our world may look radically different in the near future. Alongside these great transformations comes a great amount of anxiety about our place in this world.

We usually pay the most attention to the impact of AI on work, but what about pol...

Peter Kuhn, a founding member of the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Biosciences, discusses breakthrough technology in the fight against cancer in the latest Dornsife Dialogues. Kuhn serves on President Biden's "cancer moonshot" initiative which is working to reduce the national death rate from cancer by 50%.
 
In this discussion with distinguished cancer researcher Amy Ross PhD ‘86, Kuhn shares the late...

As Earth's temperature rises due to the effects of climate change, cooling the air in our lived environments is increasingly crucial. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about health, productivity, and survival.

Dependence on conventional air conditioning systems presents a paradox – while it offers immediate heat relief for those who have it, it contributes to global warming through high energy consumption and greenhou...

Considering AI tools can now effectively mimic human communication, robots can ace the Turing test, and lobsters and crabs have been classified by some nations as sentient, the topic of consciousness has never been more timely or interesting.

Join this fascinating discussion on the latest developments and research regarding consciousness, including philosophical and scientific approaches to consciousness, the relationship ...

For nearly 200 years, stand-up comedians haven’t just been reflecting society, they’ve been influencing it through pointed social commentary. Join us for a discussion about the evolution of the art form, some of the most influential comedians, the growing challenge of censorship, and much more.

Featuring:

Lanita Jacobs, associate professor of American studies and ethnicity and anthropology at USC Dornsife. Author ...

For many, the start of a new year signals a renewed interest in healthier eating. But what does that mean today? The research regarding what — and when — we should eat has evolved quite a bit. Learn from our experts about how people of all ages can improve their health through better eating. Including tips on what foods to eat — and when — for a longer life.

Featuring:

Valter Longo, professor of gerontology and b...

The COVID-19 pandemic made us all much more concerned about eradicating germs. Hand sanitizer is now a household staple and HEPA air filters have become the norm in offices and other indoor spaces. But many microscopic organisms we call “germs,” particularly bacteria, are actually beneficial.

Join Susan L. Forsburg, Distinguished Professor of Biological Sciences at USC Dornsife and other experts to learn how bacteria can h...

Nuclear energy is hot again. After decades of activism to close nuclear reactors and shift to other forms of energy, a growing number of political leaders and environmentalists support a renewed investment in nuclear power. Concerns around energy security and the growing need for decarbonization are also giving many nuclear plants life extensions.

Why have opinions shifted, are there new solutions to managing nuclear waste...

At times revered and at other times persecuted, witches and the phenomenon of witchcraft span global cultures and centuries of history, remaining popular even today. But what exactly is a witch and what do they practice? Were those famously persecuted for witchcraft throughout Europe and colonial America really witches? And, what’s up with those pointy hats?
 
USC Dornsife scholars traced the history of witches, and the ch...

To become the major metropolis it is today, Los Angeles periodically engaged in less than reputable means to secure the water it desperately needed -- particularly for a city built on a semi-arid coastal plain, surrounded by desert on three sides and an ocean on the fourth.

From the freshwater battle to obtain drinking water and irrigation to the saltwater battle regarding the Port of Los Angeles and control over its lucra...

Though it’s been 66 million years since dinosaurs have walked the Earth, they’ve never been more popular. What do film and TV shows get right about dinosaurs and what’s often wrong about the way they’re depicted? Could there ever actually be a Jurassic Park? Was it really a meteor that caused the extinction of dinosaurs? What did dinosaurs actually sound like?

Enjoy this fascinating live discussion with answers to viewer q...

If the trend of remote work persists, how is it likely to affect workers’ quality of life, the profitability of firms, and the economic geography of cities and suburbs?

Urban economist Matthew Kahn argues that remote work presents especially valuable opportunities for flexibility and equity in the lives of women, minorities, and young people, and even for those whose jobs do not allow them to work from home. Pew Researcher...

If you’re ready to overcome the confusion, heartbreak and madness of our dangerously divided times, whether you're left, right, center, or not a fan of labels, this video is for you. You'll learn tools and fresh, surprising insights to help you better understand and connect with those whose opinions are vastly different from your own. It’s easier than you think.

Featuring:
Mónica Guzmán,  Digital Director of ...

The birth of the universe and two of the most spectacular gravitational extremes, the Big Bang and black holes, are the focus of this fascinating discussion between two of USC Dornsife's leading scholars.

They also answered viewer questions including: Is it possible to travel through time via black holes? Is there a multiverse? What is dark matter? What is string theory? What are your expectations regarding the new W...