RICHARD GELWICK ENDOWED LECTURE SERIES
Rethinking the Workplace: Work Ethic and Post-Work Ethic
Who does work ethic serve? Political philosopher Elizabeth Anderson will explore the way modern American society thinks about work and socio-economic policies, sharing insights into the history of the political economy, the original goals of the work ethic, and how this examination can inform today’s thinking around equality, jobs and work conditions during her upcoming campus visit. The University of Michigan professor will deliver the 2025 Richard Gelwick Endowed Lecture on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 4 p.m. in the Rockwell Pavilion at the M.D. Anderson Library.
About the Distinguished Speaker
Elizabeth Anderson’s work explores issues intersecting social justice, equality and democracy, drawing from problems in actual situations faced by everyday people. In her latest book, “Hijacked: How Neoliberalism Turned the Work Ethic Against the Workers,” she calls for worker dignity and reclaiming the work ethic in American democracy. Anderson is the Arthur F. Thurnau Professor and John Dewey Distinguished University Professor of Philosophy and Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan. The lecture is sponsored by the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership and is free and open to the University of Houston and surrounding communities.
Anderson’s work explores the roots of the America work ethic that dominates U.S. workplaces and policies and the parallel view where public policies are designed to soften the sharp edges of capitalism and provide more equality of opportunity and a safety net that helps bounce people to the next best thing.
About the Richard Gelwick Endowed Lecture Series
The Richard Gelwick Endowed Lecture Series was created to honor the memory of Dr. Richard Gelwick. Gelwick encouraged the exploration and discovery of how science, faith and reason can help improve solutions to challenging public policy issues. An ordained minister and scholar, Dr. Gelwick addressed the dilemma of combining modern medical science with religious values and human needs in his life work. The Gelwick Endowed Lecture Series brings nationally prominent speakers annually to the University of Houston to discuss the importance and meaning of ethics in society.
Gelwick Family Donates $100,000 to Expand Ethics in Society Lecture Series
The Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership at the University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs has received a generous donation for the Richard Gelwick Endowed Lecture Series. Allen Gelwick, son of Rev. Dr. Richard Gelwick, has given $100,000 to further the purpose and reach of the important lecture series. The Gelwick gift will be matched by the Hobby School of Public Affairs for a total contribution of $200,000. Read more.
Sue Collins with the Gelwick Family and Jim Granato