The collection of the Sphex Club, of Lynchburg, Virginia, includes minutes ofmeetings, the constitution and bylaws of the Club, a roster of its members, and a listing ofSphex papers presented by members and guests of the Club. In addition to this guide, thecollection is outlined in more detail in “Sphex in the Jones Memorial Library,” ChapterVI of the Club history, The Sphex Club of Lynchburg, Virginia: The First One HundredYears, 1910-2010, by James M. Elson.
This paper by Joan S. Jones, presented on October 18, 1990, at the SPHEX Club, delves into the evolution of education from elementary through higher education, focusing on the shift towards more dynamic and student-centered learning approaches. It discusses the transition from traditional teaching methods to those that cater to the developmental stages of children, as outlined by educational theories such as those of Piaget. The paper also touches on the implications of these educational shifts for teacher training, curriculum development, and the fostering of a more cooperative and interactive learning environment. Emphasis is placed on the need for educational reform to accommodate diverse learning styles and to prepare students effectively for future challenges.
The paper, presented by George W. Dawson at the Sphex Club, delves into the life of Robert Frost, emphasizing the profound impact of three key women on his life and poetic works. It explores Frost's formative years, his struggles with education and financial stability, his complex family dynamics, and his tenure at prestigious institutions despite no formal degree. The narrative reveals Frost as a man marked by fame yet driven by personal insecurities and a quest for public validation, ultimately questioning whether Frost was truly "A Man for Our Times."
This paper provides a comprehensive review of the evolution of life and speculative insurance from the 18th century to modern financial instruments like Credit Default Swaps (CDS) and Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDOs). Kevin Smith delves into the historical context of insurance legislation, highlighting the transition from gambling-like speculative insurance to laws requiring insurable interest, and connects these concepts to contemporary financial crises, particularly the role of CDSs and CDOs in the 2008 financial meltdown. He advocates for stronger regulation, concluding that while recent measures have mitigated risks, significant challenges remain.
The paper "A Neglected Factor in History" by Maurice Moore (April 1925) examines how climate and its changes have historically influenced the rise and fall of civilizations. Moore argues that despite technological advances, civilizations, like Egypt and Greece, flourished under favorable climatic conditions, which eventually shifted, leading to their decline. He discusses the impact of climate on agriculture, disease prevalence, and overall societal energy, suggesting that climatic conditions directly correlate with a civilization's vitality and progress. Through extensive examples across various continents and eras, Moore highlights the overlooked yet critical role of climate in shaping human history. The paper is organized into a comprehensive overview of civilizations' achievements, followed by detailed analyses of climatic effects on societal development and decay, concluding with a call to recognize climate as a pivotal historical factor.
The genesis of the City Manager form of government in Lynchburg upon its centennial, including comments for and against by prominent citizens in advance of the successful 1919 referendum.
The paper discusses the history of newspapers in Lynchburg, Virginia, focusing on their role in local and national politics and their racial attitudes from the 19th century to the 1960s. It details the evolution of various newspapers, key figures like Carter Glass, and their influence on racial segregation and civil rights. Notable incidents, personalities, and the transition of attitudes through different eras are highlighted.
James B. Noell described the English Inns of Court. Originating in the fourteenth century, they became the great schools of law in the later Middle Ages. Of the two strands of lawyers, barristers and solicitors, the Inns of Court were concerned only with the barristers. Organization and functions of the Inns were described, as well as the environs and the Royal Courts of Justice Building. The talk included a discussions of the development of English law and the many prominent names associated with it.
The author begins by discussing the remarkable success of the United States, attributing it to the educated elite who framed its constitution and the fundamental principles upon which it was based. He then discusses those principles in details, beginning with a recognition of the individuality of man and the right of men to accumulate wealth. From this principle is derived the right of self-government and the Constitution. He cites causes for concern, including the cost of government, an unbalanced budget, increasing debt, concluding that prosperity can only come from private enterprise. He decries the Roosevelt administration’s effort to concentrate power in the federal government, arguing that the constitution vests complete power in the masses, the majority of whom are least capable of exercising that power responsibly.
Carey Brewer's paper, "A Strategy for Peace," discusses historical U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, highlighting the evolution from Truman's initial response to Soviet aggression to collective security efforts. Emphasizing the influence of Kennedy's peace approach, Brewer reflects on personal experiences in government, detailing key events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the development of secret facilities. The paper underscores a strategy of peace through strength and international cooperation.
A Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On presented by Eric J. Sorenson, Sr. explores the geological history and impact of cataclysmic events such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. It traces the formation of the English Channel, the birth of the island of Surtsey, and major historic eruptions like Krakatoa and Mount Vesuvius. The paper discusses the development of geological theories, particularly plate tectonics and continental drift, and their role in understanding these phenomena.
Kenneth R. Garren's talk, "A Wrecking Ball in Washington, DC?" delivered on November 13, 2014, critiques the Obama administration's plan to make college more affordable through a new rating system for colleges. Garren discusses the potential negative impacts of this system on higher education, shares feedback from various stakeholders, and highlights innovative approaches by some institutions to reduce costs and improve quality.
Theodore J. Craddock's paper, presented at the SPHEX Club in 2007, explores the burgeoning interest in genealogy, tracing its popularization to cultural phenomena like the TV series Roots. Craddock discusses the economic growth of genealogy in the U.S., the social drivers behind this interest, and the impact of technological advancements such as the internet and DNA testing on genealogical research. He examines various perspectives on ancestry, highlighting the limitations and revelations of DNA testing, while questioning the accuracy and personal implications of these genetic inquiries.
James A. Huston's paper, "Adventures in Amateur Writing," recounts his experiences as a writer after World War II. It is organized chronologically, detailing the creation and challenges of his various literary projects, including a battalion biography, a historical novel on Tecumseh, and histories of military logistics. Huston emphasizes the persistence required to complete and publish these works.
Julie P. Doyle's paper, "Adventures in the Unfriendly Skies," details her mother's experiences as a flight attendant for United Airlines in the 1950s. The paper is organized into sections covering the history of flight attendants, personal anecdotes, and the broader societal issues of sexism, racism, and dangers faced by early stewardesses. Key points include discriminatory hiring practices, personal stories of racism, and harrowing incidents like midair collisions and bomb threats.
This paper explores the role of the artist in society, emphasizing the often underappreciated contributions artists make beyond their art. Monk argues that artists possess unique problem-solving skills and a creative mindset that can significantly benefit public discourse and civic engagement. The paper cites examples of artistic contributions to community renewal and public good, such as Simon Rodia's Watts Towers and the Watts Writers Workshop, highlighting the potential for art to drive cultural and social renewal. Additionally, Monk discusses artist residencies and public art projects as platforms for artists to influence and enrich communities, advocating for greater recognition and support for the artistic community's broader societal role.
This academic paper explores the Babington Plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth I, the role of Sir Francis Walsingham in its discovery, and the possible elimination of Christopher Marlowe. McIntosh intertwines historical analysis with literary critique, particularly focusing on Marlowe's "The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus" and its thematic exploration of hell and damnation. The paper delves into the contrast between good and evil, utilizing references from various sources, including Newsweek and Vice's journalism style, to discuss modern perceptions of morality. It also integrates theological discussions, referencing the Rule of St. Benedict and the Pauline epistles, to frame human nature's continuous struggle between virtue and vice.
This paper explores the enduring influence of classical and medieval imagery in modern advertising. McIntosh examines how marketers utilize iconic artworks, like those from the Sistine Chapel, the Mona Lisa, and Botticelli's Birth of Venus, to evoke familiarity, appeal, and various symbolic meanings to promote products ranging from tourism and fashion to digital photography and online banking. Through a detailed analysis, the paper demonstrates how these adaptations not only reflect contemporary cultural and commercial practices but also engage with deeper themes of choice, judgment, and aesthetic continuity across history.
Ellen Nygaard's talk, "All's Well That Ends Well," delved into the complexities of death and dying in America, examining societal attitudes, healthcare costs, and personal experiences with end-of-life care. Highlighting the gap between Americans' experiences with terminal illnesses and their preparedness for such events, Nygaard advocated for the importance of advance directives and open discussions about death. She underscored the emotional and financial burdens families face and emphasized meaningful conversations at life's end, using personal anecdotes and external references to illustrate her points.
This paper explores the concept of a midlife crisis, its origins, and its prevalence. The author, Eric J. Sorenson, Jr., references various studies and cultural references to question the universality of the midlife crisis, suggesting that while it is a well-known stereotype, empirical evidence shows it is not a common experience. The paper examines different theoretical perspectives and challenges the notion that a midlife crisis is an inevitable part of human development.
A. F. Thomas, overcoming early life obstacles, made significant contributions in business, especially in the tobacco industry and public service. He was a reformist, advocating for equitable taxation, education reform, and social justice. A founder of the First Unitarian Church of Lynchburg and a Virginia State Senator, Thomas was known for his work ethic, innovation, and dedication to civic and educational reform.
This academic paper delves into the extensive and costly failures of the United States' War on Drugs. Schewel critiques the war as wasteful, ineffective, and harmful, highlighting the negative societal impacts and flawed strategies behind drug prohibition. Specifically, the paper examines the history and regulation of marijuana, cocaine, and heroin in the U.S., outlines the prohibition's economic and social consequences, and questions the ethical basis of preventing adult drug use. Schewel utilizes anecdotes, historical legislation reviews, and quotes from Milton Friedman to argue against the prohibition's rationale and effectiveness.
