Eugene Borgida, professor of psychology and law and director of the Center for the Study of Political Psychology, was named the Fesler-Lampert Chair in Urban and Regional Affairs for 2002–2003. Borgida used the resources provided by his appointment to extend his work with Regents Professor of Political Science John Sullivan on the impact of computer networks on the conduct of civic life in rural Minnesota communities, a project initially funded by CURA in 1996. The project focused on the role a community’s civic and political cultural norms play in addressing disparities in access to information technology. Borgida and Sullivan conducted survey research, focus groups, and archival research in several rural communities, including those taking part in Minnesota’s Rural Internet Initiative, a program designed to improve the state’s telecommunications infrastructure. He also developed and piloted a new graduate seminar on the Internet and Civic Culture.

Project Award Date: 

2002-06-15

Sponsoring CURA Program: 

Fesler-Lampert Chair in Urban and Regional Affairs

CURA Contact: