ARSE | i i i | i November 18, 1998 - LIONS EYE - Page 7 Professor of the Month: The Philosophical Practices of Dr. Robert Ginsberg By Lori Craddock Lion's Eye Staff Writer Robert Ginsberg, our Phi- losophy teacher here at Delco, brings ‘a whole new meaning to the term co- operative learning. Just what is it that singles this teacher out in the minds and words of students as “the best” and sometimes “the hardest” teacher? Although his classes are assigned many novels to read, ample time is given for discussion and catching up. Why then is this pro- fessor the talk of campus as each se- mester comes to a close? I believe “... They must discover themselves in un- thought of ways by exer- cising their powers of thinking ...” the answer lies in the atmosphere he creates for his class, in which stu- dents are given the lead, under his guidance, to control the path each discussion takes. Therefore, this class is truly what you make of it. Professor Ginsberg responds to the intensity of the course with what is expected of his students: “They must discover themselves in unthought of ways by exercising their powers of thinking. Classes are difficult, but so is life. For example, being a student and thinking deep questions. College is meant to get people into these difficult situations and help them get through them.” Words of a true philosopher. With classes focusing on the thoughts and creations of students, we begin to wonder what is behind the mysterious, seemingly unaffected and unbiased, face of Professor Ginsberg himself. Many have tried to approach this guru of the philo- sophical world, but like the fool with the wise man, we find ourselves con- fused and questioning just what tran- spired at all. To put these insecurities at Photo Survey: Christina Rodoslogiou: “It makes it more interesting. It’s good that the girls get support from the guys.” rest, Ginsberg says he himself has a lot to learn. Often after a day of teaching, he reflects on how much better it could have been. He won- ders how he could have done it right. Then, he uses this regret as an incen- tive to do better the next time. For example, his class requires him to give guidance and stimulance to draw out the best from his students. Ginsberg says, “ It is difficult know- ing when to interrupt, when to ques- tion, and who to call upon.” He then described himself as, “ a perpetual student willing to learn from each classroom, each book, each student, and each day I learn something new.” The thought of Professor Ginsberg being compared to our- selves in this way only stimulates the deeper curiosity in us to find out who this professor is, where he has been, and just what goes on in that mind of his. I am proud to give all of you questioning minds out there a human- izing piece of this paradox’s founda- tions. Robert Ginsberg was born in New York. He has both an older sis- ter and brother. His brilliance was displayed at an early age as he went to college in Chicago after his sopho- more year in highschool. He attended the University of Chicago for eight years and took general education since they did not have majors. Af- ter he got his B.A., he wanted to con- tinue. He took courses like humani- ties, literature, philosophy, and french. At this point, Ginsberg was lucky to receive a Fulbright Fellow- ship to France for three years. It was here he met Ellen, his wife now for 26 years, who is a professor and dean at the Catholic University of America. This was a good time to study in other countries. Ginsberg also studied in Sweden, Austria, and the Netherlands. This explains his strong attachment to international exposure and cultural exchange. While abroad, Professor Ginsberg realized he needed an American Ph.D to have an academic career, so he returned as a student at the University of Penn- Dino Petsinis: “It’s good because the guys meet the girls.” Philosophy teacher Robert Ginsberg’s legendary words “Assess, assess, assess.” sylvania. He completed his doctor- ate in the field of philosophy. Soon after receiving this, Penn State opened the Delaware County campus in September 1967. Professor Ginsberg had the good fortune of being the first faculty member, but due to the ongoing con- struction, he was forced to teach in. a rental building located in Chester P.A.. Not only was this a former fish market, but it was one gigantic building with no windows. To top this off, there was a roller rink above his classroom. At four o’clock ev- ery day, the “Steam Calliope” roller team would play above his lectures. There were about thirteen faculty and only one hundred students at - this time. Even at this early stage in his teaching career we see a unique at- mosphere. Ginsberg tries to spice up his classroom with guest speak- ers we know all too well. With a mask, hat, or other such prop, this professor is transformed into the very argument his students are dis- cussing. He does this to give stu-- dents a home based or first hand opinion of different rationales and their effects on society. Ginsberg says, “Many stu- dents incorrectly believe everything Cheerleading Team Goes Coed, What Do You Think? Lauren Joner: “I think it will be a lot more fun and challenging.” is a matter of opinion, which implies that something is right if you believe it 1s right. This line of reasoning justifies murder. Students are not aware of the fatal consequences of this thinking.” This line of think- ing 1s why Ginsberg created his best known guest, Mr. X, a recruiter for Murder Inc.. Students find them- selves arguing against murder, which we all know to be a heated debate. : Other personalities Ginsberg has created include Robot Ginsberg, Martian Ginsberg, and Giant Frog. Martian Ginsberg, which includes a monster mask, tail, and funny hat, is used to shock students into rec- ognition of their own humanity. Giant Frog, his personal favorite, demands students to defend being human. Hence, cooperative learning takes on a new meaning with his in- teractive teaching. There is much more to this teacher than teaching and humor. Some of the things that Ginsberg enjoys are art, travel, gardens, read- ing, and old movies. When asked what he dislikes, he says, “I’m not troubled by things I don’t like, so nothing sticks out in my mind.” I guess that is why Professor Ginsberg makes such a good Philosophy teacher. He is intelligent, diverse, and open minded. He has spent his life getting to know how people think and act. With his fresh outlook on life and his brilliant teaching tech- niques, this man has truly made his mark upon the minds of many. Pro- fessor Ginsberg is much more than meets the eye and I believe he will always keep us wondering. His class will teach you to learn responsibil- ity, empathizing, and most impor- tantly introspection. So, if you get the chance, talk to this teacher or better yet take his class. Especially those of you who believe you have a pretty good outlook on life. I, along with Ginsberg, challenge you and your opinions to test the weight of your actions and see if your outlooks do not change throughout this course. Lazarus Boukis: “If guys want to do it they should let them even though it’s a girl’s sport.”
Significant historical Pennsylvania newspapers