Work in Progress by Joan Jones, delves into the evolution of educational approaches towards gifted children in Lynchburg, from the era of Superintendent Dr. Paul Munro's homogenized view of student abilities to the innovative strategies implemented by Dr. Fred Young. Through personal anecdotes and a historical overview, Jones critiques the static IQ-based identification of giftedness, advocating for Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences (MI) as a more inclusive and humane framework. She highlights the dynamic nature of education, the necessity of recognizing and nurturing diverse talents, and the potential shifts towards MI-inspired curricula, emphasizing the critical role of individualized education in developing every child's potential.
The paper "World Peace" by A.F. Thomas emphasizes the necessity of planning for post-war social readjustments based on moral, political, and economic principles. Thomas advocates for an international government to ensure global cooperation and justice, critiquing the failures of absolute national sovereignty and urging the alignment of sovereign power with moral law to prevent future conflicts.
Digital images of ration books from Jones Memorial Library Manuscript Collection 2049, the Brightwell Family Ration Books.
The collection includes ration books issued from 1942-1945 during World War II in Lynchburg, Virginia to members of the Brightwell family. These images include samples of ration books and coupons for sugar, gasoline, and other goods, including advisories about use of the books and price gouging.
The paper "The Untold Story of Women's Suffrage in Lynchburg, Virginia" by Ted Delaney examines the local women's suffrage movement, highlighting key figures like Elizabeth Dabney Langhorne Lewis and their efforts and obstacles. It traces the national context of women's suffrage, the formation of local suffrage leagues, their activities, and the eventual success and impact of the 19th Amendment on Lynchburg's women.
Christina Delzingaro's presentation, "Yet Another Thing I Never Learned in School," explored the setbacks faced by African Americans in accumulating generational wealth due to white physical and policy violence starting from the Reconstruction Era. It detailed the impact of over 175 racially motivated massacres and oppressive policies like Jim Crow laws and redlining on the economic and political advancement of black Americans, highlighting the long-lasting effects of these actions on the wealth disparity between white and black families in the U.S.
James M. Elson's paper outlines his plans for two distinct funerals to honor his life and his two wives. Emphasizing meticulous preparation, the paper details the services, musical selections, and readings, highlighting the significance of music and personal touches. Elson shares his life's background and the rationale behind his unique funeral plans, inviting feedback from his audience.
This paper by Philip Lightfoot Scruggs revisits and challenges Thomas Wolfe's assertion "You can't go home again" through personal experiences and observations. Scruggs, whose life spanned significant cultural and social changes, explores the nuances of returning to familiar places and the evolving concept of home. He reflects on his diverse career, the impact of the Great Depression, and shifts in his hometown of Lynchburg, using these as lenses to argue that one can indeed "go home again," albeit in a changed world. The paper delves into themes of nostalgia, cultural and personal transformation, and the enduring connections that define "home."
The paper, "You Got No Soul," by William T. Johnson, delves into the debate of whether a corporation should merely aim for profitability or also possess a 'soul', reflecting a commitment to ethics, community, and internal values. Johnson interviews several CEOs and reports on their answers to his questions as he explores the primary purpose of corporations through various lenses, including business ethics, the impact of leadership, and the balance between shareholder interests and wider societal responsibilities. He concludes that while profitability is crucial, the longevity and success of a company also depend on its ethical foundation and the authenticity of its corporate values.
Eric (Rick) Sorenson, Jr. discusses the human quest for an extended life or immortality. After reviewing articles on extending human life, Sorenson focuses on transhumanism and its emphasis on non-biological evolution and the merger of man and machine. Sorenson explores genetic engineering; nanotechnology; cellular repair; robotics; timing; and a new body-hardware Take II. Critics focus on both the feasibility and their moral objections to transhumanism. Sorenson concludes by sharing his own views on transhumanism.
Dr. Ken West's paper explores the significance of early recollections in understanding individual behavior and cognitive psychology, focusing on Alfred Adler's theories. It discusses the therapeutic value of early memories, the process of identifying true early recollections, and how these memories influence life decisions. The paper includes historical context on Adler's work, comparisons with Freud and Jung, and practical applications in therapy.
The paper explores the architectural and cultural significance of Mont Saint-Michel and Chartres Cathedral, emphasizing their historical context and artistic importance. It describes the construction, design, and symbolic meanings of these medieval structures, highlighting their roles in the integration of church and state. The work also reflects on the broader impact of medieval architecture on contemporary understanding and appreciation of art, faith, and human creativity.
Vannevar Bush's 1968 speech addressed concerns about youth's rebellion against societal norms and governance. It highlighted the intelligence and awareness of young people, their dissatisfaction with political and social issues, and their inclination to enact change. The speaker emphasized the need to encourage youth participation in public affairs and politics, acknowledging their potential to lead the country effectively and urging the older generation to support and guide them.
