TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Dr. James R. Otteson, University of Alabama professor of philosophy and Arts and Sciences Leadership Board Fellow, will speak on “Grand Unification Social Theory: Bringing It All Together in Ethics and Politics” Thursday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. in 205 Gorgas Library.

This lecture is in conjunction with Otteson being named the first-place winner of the prestigious 2007 Templeton Enterprise Award, one of the top book prizes in the United States. The award, given by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, is presented to scholars under 40 years of age who have produced the very best books and articles in the field of humane economics and culture over the previous two years.

Otteson's book “Actual Ethics” (Cambridge University Press, 2006) employs the concept of human personhood and the classical liberal political state to address issues such as poverty and family relief, affirmative action, public education, euthanasia, gay marriage and the concept of human happiness.

Otteson joined UA in 1997 after receiving his doctorate in philosophy from the University of Chicago. His areas of expertise include the history of modern and ancient philosophy and political philosophy.

The lecture will be followed by a book signing and reception. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing at the event. This event is co-sponsored by UA Libraries and the UA College of Arts and Sciences.

The University of Alabama, a student-centered research university, is in the midst of a planned, steady enrollment growth with a goal of reaching 28,000 students by 2010. This growth, which is positively impacting the campus and the state's economy, is in keeping with UA's vision to be the university of choice for the best and brightest students. UA, the state's flagship university, is an academic community united in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Alabamians.