The recently revealed PLACE theme “How Do We Know? Paths to Wisdom,” for the 2014-2015 academic year gives incoming freshman and transfer students an interesting impression on what Linfield is all about.

Students of the current academic year have learned from this year’s PLACE theme to see war from a different lens, allowing for a better understanding of the world around them and perceptions of different cultures.

Although having a broad theme is great for finding speakers from varying backgrounds and having panel discussions on vastly different topics, it could be a daunting theme for students to grasp.

The point of theme is likely designed for students to question everything about how people know what they know, and why they should believe what those in government say.

Topics in the humanities and the sciences will be brought to light through the theme making the college’s mission for students to understand the academic strength a liberal arts education holds.

The current PLACE theme has allowed students to see the different sides of war be that from a military, civilian, or governmental standpoint that they might have otherwise not thought of.

The book that incoming students will have to read will be also play a key role on what freshman and transfer students begin to think about as they enter the academic year.

This year’s PLACE theme book: “Thieves of Baghdad” by Matthew Bogdanos had mixed results of interest towards the book’s topic.

The book is somewhat lengthy but provides readers with interesting information many had no idea that pertains to the Iraq war.

Linfield College was fortunate enough to have Bogdanos speak at the Convocation in August that marked the start of the academic year.

Those that read his book found out what a multi-versed person Bogdanos is.

He holds degrees in classical studies, strategic studies and law that have all contributed to his success as a leading colonel.

He embodies what a liberal education represents since he is knowledgeable in the humanities and applies what he knows into practice in his own life.

The theme should be successful as it has much to discuss for it to remain interesting for a year.

Next year’s required PLACE reading is “Ignorance: How it Drives Science” by Stuart Firestein, which is sure to get students interested in college.

-The Review

Editorial Board