Club Meeting 63: Common Sense
Common Sense by Thomas Paine is a persuasive political pamphlet that argues for the American colonies’ independence from Great Britain. Written in clear, direct language, it challenges the legitimacy of monarchy and hereditary rule while making a compelling case for self-governance and the creation of a democratic republic. Paine’s ideas helped inspire widespread support for independence by framing it as both logical and necessary.
Guest : Don Geci
Don Geci is an interdisciplinary researcher and educator based in Manhattan. He is currently the Bookmobile Manager at the House of SpeakEasy. He is also a contributing editor for The Observatory and a research coordinator for Be All You Education. He began his career as an assistant at Northwestern University’s Center of Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics where he studied exoplanets under a team of postdoctoral researchers. He has since occupied various roles in education, as a tutor, a teaching assistant, and an analyst. Most recently, he was a researcher and production associate for American History Unbound, where he contributed to PBS Specials that combine historical documentary, live performance, and orchestra. Born in Kosovo, he grew up in San Diego and then Chicago before attending Princeton University. He initially studied astrophysics before pivoting to ancient philosophy. He is an avid reader who relishes in engaging big ideas across the sciences and humanities.
