Dr. Glenn Utter Explores Threats to American Democracy March 27, 2022

Dr. Glenn Utter

​Jamestown, N.Y. – Dr. Glenn Utter returns to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Jamestown (UUCJ) on Sunday, March 27.

His message at the 10:30 a.m. hybrid service is “Threats to American Democracy.” 

Utter’s talk will cover five areas: (1) an examination of what political scientists regard as the criteria for democracy, (2) an evaluation of just how democratic the United States is (in the context of the limitations on democracy in the Constitution), (3) current challenges to democracy, (4) proposals for making the American political system more democratic (or at least preserving the current system), and (5) how likely it is that such proposals will be introduced.

The presentation relates most closely to the fifth of the seven Principles that Unitarian Universalist congregations affirm and promote: The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large.

A graduate of Jamestown High School and Jamestown Community College, Utter received his Ph.D. in Political Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is a distinguished professor emeritus at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, where he was a member of the political science department, serving as chair from 1992 to 2011. 

Now living in Jamestown, Utter is the author, co-author, and editor of several books, including The Religious Right and American Politics (2019), Youth and Political Participation (2011), and The Gun Debate: An Encyclopedia of Gun Rights and Gun Control (2016).

A social time follows the service.

While not mandated, vaccines, masks, and appropriate distancing are encouraged for those who participate in the service in person. 

Participation can be either in person at 1255 Prendergast Avenue in Jamestown or online. To join virtually, use the link at UUJamestown.org/calendar.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Jamestown is a progressive, liberal religious community serving the southern tier of Western New York and Warren County, Pa. The UUCJ’s mission is to support and celebrate each other, encourage spiritual and individual growth, and serve the wider community.

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