ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University Political Science Professor Dr. Jon Schaff has co-authored a book with former Northern colleague Dr. Anthony Wachs.
The book, “Age of Anxiety: Meaning, Identity, and Politics in 21st-Century Film and Literature,” was released Sunday, Dec. 15, from Lexington Books.
In “Age of Anxiety,” the authors argue that the 20th century sought to free individuals from the constraints of authoritative cultural traditions and institutions – but instead of giving rise to liberation, this gave rise to anxiety. Utilizing paradigms from the fields of communication/rhetoric and political philosophy, the book shows how the self has been displaced from its natural habitat of the local community.
Schaff, who specializes in the study of American political thought and institutions, received his bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University, his master’s from the University of Wyoming and his Ph.D. from Loyola University Chicago. At Northern, Schaff has been a department Chair, faculty athletic representative, Chair of the NSU Promotion and Tenure committee, and 2005 NSU Outstanding Faculty Award winner.
Wachs, now of Duquesne University, is an Aberdeen native and formerly assistant professor of speech communication and director of forensics at Northern. He was named NSU Outstanding Faculty Award winner in 2016.
“Writing this book with Anthony Wachs has been the highlight of my career,” Schaff said. “We have produced a book that I believe gives keen insight into our cultural moment, relating philosophy and rhetorical theory to commentary on today’s popular culture.”
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a regional university that offers outstanding academics and exceptional extracurricular activities at an affordable price on a safe, welcoming campus. Northern State recently announced its Educational Impact Campaign, with a goal of raising $55 million for a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, new athletic and recreation fields, and an on-campus regional sports complex. Once the campaign is complete, NSU will be the recipient of more than $100 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.