What can we learn from one of the most extreme climates on Earth? More than we can ever imagine, as argues one Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, law professor and Antarctic explorer, coming to Kansas City this Leap Day for a one-time only guest lecture.
In partnership with the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Linda Hall Library presents Science in the Race to the South Pole, a lively discussion of the scientific influence of Robert F. Scott’s voyage to the bottom of the globe with Edward J. Larson, PhD, JD at 7 p.m. on February 29 at the Linda Hall Library.
“Now more than ever, it is essential that we learn about our planet,” said Eric Ward, vice president for public programs at the Linda Hall Library. “Dr. Larson is one of the world’s leading experts on the history of our South Pole expeditions, and his insight into Scott’s scientific exploration, its influence on our evolving understanding of Antarctica and the larger research into climate science makes this a cannot-miss event.”
Dr. Larson is a University Professor of History and Law at Pepperdine University and Previously taught for 20 years at the University of Georgia, where he chaired the history department. He has authored fifteen books on the history of scientific exploration and American history, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning bestseller Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and Empire of Ice: Science in the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. He has PhD in the History of Science from the University of Wisconsin and a law degree from Harvard.
One of the world’s most renowned guest lecturers, Professor Larson has presented on all seven continents in just one year, made presentations at over 100 universities and cultural institutions and cultural institutions, and served as a visiting professor or resident scholar at Yale Law School, Stanford Law School, University of Melbourne, Leiden University, Cambridge University, Mount Vernon, Bellagio Institute and University of Richmond. In addition to his educational lectures, he has appeared on The Daily Show, C-SPAN, PBS, NPR and The History Channel.
“Scott’s voyage to the Antarctic may not have been the first of even the most famous, but after hearing Dr. Larson’s telling of the expedition and the scientific exploration that came out of it, you will never look at the South Pole the same again,” said Lora Vogt, Curator of Education and Interpretation at the National WWI Museum and Memorial.
Science in the Race to the South Pole is free and open to the public, though pre-registering is required for the in-person event, and seating is limited. A virtual live stream is also free and available for registration.
The program takes place from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. on February 29 at the Linda Hall Library, located at 5109 Cherry Street in Kansas City, Missouri. Parking is free in Library parking lots and along the west side of Holmes Street between 51st and 52nd Streets.
