Susan B. Wilson

The constitutional right to bear arms has long been viewed as a critical American principle. But, does this right threaten public safety or allow us to better shield ourselves from random gun violence?  Starting July 1 it will be legal to bring a concealed weapon into all Kansas buildings with a concealed carry permit unless the building provides "adequate security."  In Missouri, state agencies have been under fire for providing concealed carry permit information to federal agents. In response the Senate has voted to defund the DMV.  Are these bills and laws necessary?  Will they really make us safer? And why do some oppose them?

The three C’s--Clans, cliques and clubs—everyone has probably enjoyed the sense of belonging and the social support that membership provides. Throughout history, organized groups have waged war and influenced everything from local customs to the division of wealth and property. But when does loyalty to the group begin to interfere with individual freedom, and at worst, the very stability of clan itself?  And how do we live in a democratic society and balance both individuals and group needs and pressures? We talk about how our modern society was shaped by ancient forms of social organization---otherwise known as clans---and debate the balance between individual freedom and group loyalty -- family.

Blacks and Jews have historically had a complicated relationship in the United States.  And it’s perhaps the most evident when they claim the same religion, or historical ancestry. The development of Black Israelite or Black Jewish faith has its roots in Kansas, according to the book The Chosen People: The Rise of American Black Israelite Religions by University of Kansas history and American studies professor, Jacob Dorman.

It seems that nowadays, anytime you hear a hip-hop song the lyrics are full of negative and insulting messages. Whether these comments are racist, misogynistic, or just downright disrespectful it's easy to associate the entire hip-hop culture with these words of hate. On this Central Standard, we look specifically at misogyny in hip-hop music.