Faculty Profile
Neil Weissman
Professor of Educational Studies; Russell I. Thompson Chair of the Dean of the College (1975)
Contact Information
Waidner-Boyd Lee Spahr Library CIO Office
717-245-1139
Bio
His areas of specialization involve the comparative history of Russia, Japan, and Germany, with emphasis on the impact of revolution and modernization on traditional societies and cultures. His research deals with police and deviance in early Soviet Russia.
Education
- B.A., Colgate University, 1970
- M.A., Princeton University, 1972
- Ph.D., 1976
Awards
- Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching, 1984-1985
2025-2026 Academic Year
Fall 2025
FYSM 100 First-Year Seminar
The First-Year Seminar (FYS) introduces students to Dickinson as a "community of inquiry" by developing habits of mind essential to liberal learning. Through the study of a compelling issue or broad topic chosen by their faculty member, students will:
- Critically analyze information and ideas
- Examine issues from multiple perspectives
- Discuss, debate and defend ideas, including one's own views, with clarity and reason
- Develop discernment, facility and ethical responsibility in using information, and
- Create clear academic writing
The small group seminar format of this course promotes discussion and interaction among students and their professor. In addition, the professor serves as students' initial academic advisor. This course does not duplicate in content any other course in the curriculum and may not be used to fulfill any other graduation requirement.