Ph.D., Cornell University
Director, Interdisciplinary Studies Program
Professor, Government and Justice Studies
lovens@appstate.edu
828-262-3178

Curriculum Vitae [pdf]

I'm a political theorist, with a Ph.D. in political science and strong ties to philosophy and women’s studies. Along with directing the Interdisciplinary Studies Program, I have a faculty position as a professor of Government and Justice Studies. My research explores ways to extend concepts of public discourse beyond debates, speeches, and votes to include the arts, especially music. I am especially interested in how music contributes to social change by mobilizing people for democratic and anti-democratic causes. My most recent book, Musical Democracy (SUNY 2006), examines how music functions as metaphor and model for democracy in the work of democratic theorists (Jurgen Habermas and John Rawls) and activist musicians from the feminist and civil rights movements. I’m currently researching how the radical right is using racist skinhead music to recruit youth, fund activities, and promote violence.

My teaching and research have always been interdisciplinary, and I am excited about directing an Interdisciplinary Studies Program with that explicit commitment. University College also provides an innovative context for doing interdisciplinary work. Since research universities are so highly specialized, it's often difficult to work across disciplinary boundaries. My ongoing conversations with faculty and students have convinced me that Appalachian State is a place where the integration of knowledge really matters. Among the things I anticipate doing as IDS Director is developing an “Interdisciplinary Thinkers” lecture series linked to the new General Education curriculum.