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Col. Ryan R. Holston, professor in the Department of International Studies and Political Science and the Jonathan M. Daniels ’61 Chair for Academic Excellence at Virginia Military Institute, recently published his first book, “Tradition and the Deliberative Turn: A Critique of Contemporary Democratic Theory.”
The book is a critique of utopianism as it pertains to modern democratic theory and the way people deliberate in political life. According to Holston, the need for roots and communities to understand one another is often forgotten. “It is important to have political discussions and deliberations in a community in which you can draw on common experiences and a way of life. Persuasion among 300 million people with no shared culture or values is the utopian view,” he explained.
While he was on sabbatical from VMI during spring semester, Holston spent two days in March at Roanoke College fulfilling his duties as scholar-in-residence, teaching a few classes and interacting with honors students. “It was a treat to talk with them. They were very impressive students, the best and the brightest. It was an enjoyable experience,” reflected Holston. During his time at Roanoke College, Holston also gave a lecture on Flannery O’Connor, a 20th century American novelist, short story writer and essayist. He spoke on O’Connor’s critique of scientific humanitarianism, as found in her fiction, and her vision of a better way to inhabit the world.
His book was published by SUNY Press and may be purchased by going to the website, www.sunypress.edu.
