On September 24, 2024, a dozen faculty members and graduate students attended the first Inklings gathering of the new academic year. Professor Joel Edward Goza of Simmons College of Kentucky spoke about his latest book entitled Rebirth of a Nation: Reparations & the Remaking of America. The book explores the contentious topic of reparations, delving into the complex historical foundations of racial injustice in the United States and how contemporary society can address systemic issues to promote healing. In his presentation, Goza built on these themes, drawing connections from the early days of the slave trade up through the modern day. He described a Reparative Age that emphasizes repentance, repayment, and repairing harms. His presentation was followed by a lengthy discussion among the attendees.
A prolific author, Professor Goza holds a Master of Divinity degree from Duke University and a Master of Public Affairs degree from the LBJ School of Public Policy at the University of Texas.
The original Inklings consisted of a small group of intellectuals (whose ranks included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis) who met weekly at Oxford University to read aloud and discuss their works in a spirit of fellowship and civil conversation. In the spirit of these Inklings, the Department of Political Science at Texas State University has held similar gatherings for more than two decades. Meeting monthly, TXST Inklings participants discuss research, exchange ideas, and address a wide variety of issues reflecting diverse interests.
For more information on the series, please contact Dr. Arnold Leder at al04@txstate.edu.
