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Quantum computing is set to transform how we solve some of the world's biggest problems, from accelerating medical breakthroughs to tackling climate challenges. But how does it work, and why is it so powerful?

In this Dornsife Dialogues, leaders in the field explained the basics of quantum computing and discussed the incredible potential it holds for shaping our future.

Moderated by Moh El-Naggar, Interim Dean, USC Dornsife; Dean's Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Chemistry

With:

• Rosa Di Felice, professor of physics and astronomy and quantitative and computational biology, USC Dornsife
• Daniel Lidar, Viterbi professorship in engineering and professor of electrical engineering systems, USC Viterbi; professor of chemistry, physics and astronomy, USC Dornsife

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.

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Danzy Senna, USC Dornsife professor of English and celebrated author of the novel Colored Television, joins her fellow author (and former student) Jonathan Escoffery for a lively discussion of her literary journey, central themes in her work — including mixed-race identity, artistic ambition and bohemianism — and more.

Lauded by The New York Times, The Washington Post and others as one of the best books of 2024 and dubbed “The New Great American Novel” by the Los Angeles Times, Colored Television sets a new standard for contemporary fiction.

Senna is also the award-winning author of Caucasia, Symptomatic and New People, works that have cemented her reputation as a bold, witty voice in American literature. She shares her stories firsthand with Escoffery, an award-winning writer whose critically acclaimed debut novel, If I Survive You, was named “Best Book of 2022” by NPR and a New York Times’ Editors’ Choice.

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The presidency may be determined by razor-thin margins in swing states this November. Voters from groups traditionally less likely to turn out – such as non-college-educated individuals, low-income Americans and voters of color – could play a pivotal role in the outcome.

Our panel explores the key issues driving engagement among these underrepresented voters, the challenges they may face, such as voter suppression and misinformation, and their potential impact on swing state results.

Moderated by Jane Coaston, contributing opinion writer, The New York Times; fellow, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future.

With:

Mike Madrid, political consultant; author, The Latino Century: How America’s Largest Minority is Transforming Democracy; fellow, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future

Eugene Scott, host, Axios Live; former national political reporter, The Washington Post

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A healthy brain is crucial for a long, enjoyable life, and growing evidence suggests that the gut plays a significant role in cognitive function. Beyond that, your gut microbiome influences diverse aspects of health, including mood, nutrition, and numerous chronic diseases.

Listen to this discussion with USC Dornsife researchers to learn about how our diet, gut, and microbiome interact to impact the mind and body throughout life.

Moderated by Dana G. Smith '09, reporter, New York Times

With:

• Scott Kanoski, professor of biological sciences, USC Dornsife
• Lindsey Schier, assistant professor of biological sciences, USC Dornsife

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.

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As climate change intensifies across the planet, attention is turning toward technologies that offer novel ways to decarbonize our economy and our atmosphere. These include options for capturing, storing, and reusing carbon, and geoengineering techniques that directly manipulate the Earth's climate and environment.

These methods may provide a critical boost to our attempts to achieve ambitious climate goals. Yet, these solutions are not without their critics, who warn about unforeseen environmental and social repercussions.

Watch this discussion regarding some of the most promising emerging climate technologies, the associated risks, and the urgency of these strategies within the scientific community.

With:

• William Berelson, PhD '85, Paxson H. Offield Professor in Coastal and Marine Systems and professor of Earth sciences, environmental studies and spatial sciences, USC Dornsife
• Anu Khan, entrepreneur in residence, Carbon180

Moderated by:
Joe Árvai, Dana and David Dornsife Professor of Psychology and Director, USC Wrigley Institute for Environment & Sustainability

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Marking the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 75th anniversary, USC Dornsife scholars examine the transatlantic alliance’s evolution from a Cold War bulwark to its current role. Is it time to strengthen, transform, or even retire it?

Our political science and global security scholars convened for a critical dialogue on NATO's relevance and future as the next U.S. presidential election approaches. 

With:

• Robert English, associate professor of international relations, Slavic languages and literature and environmental studies, USC Dornsife
• Peter Westwick, professor of the practice of thematic option and history, USC Dornsife

Moderated by:

• Gregory Treverton, professor of the practice of international relations and spatial sciences, USC Dornsife; former chairperson, U.S. National Intelligence Council

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Join us for a compelling discussion on the enduringly popular playwright, William Shakespeare. Four centuries after his final curtain call, his influence still resonates deeply in our culture, our language, and our understanding of human nature.

We'll explore the man behind the myth, the truths and misconceptions that have shaped his portrayal in popular culture, how race influences the interpretation of his plays, and the indelible mark his words have left on the English language

How did a child from a rural town rise to become the dominant figure of Elizabethan theater? What is it about his work that keeps him at the forefront of literary greatness and cultural relevance? And how might we use his plays to better understand our current moment?

Moderated by:
Andrew Stott, vice provost for academic programs and dean of the graduate school; professor of English, USC Dornsife; author, What Blest Genius? The Jubilee that Made Shakespeare

With:
Bruce Smith, Dean's Professor of English Emeritus, USC Dornsife; author, Phenomenal Shakespeare

Ian Smith, professor of English, USC Dornsife; author, Black Shakespeare: Reading and Misreading Race

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.

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In this age of constant connectivity, social media has become more than just a means of expressing ourselves and connecting with others. The powerful algorithms that underpin these platforms are shaping how we communicate with others, what information we take in, and our perceptions of events (and ourselves). Its pervasive presence has brought a maze of challenges that have impacted our mental well-being.

Join us for an engaging conversation regarding the intersection of social media and stress and learn valuable insights and actionable steps to achieve a more balanced and stress-resilient relationship with social media.

With:
Julie Albright '96, PhD '01, digital sociologist; lecturer, USC Dornsife and USC Viterbi

Ian Anderson, PhD ‘24; behavioral scientist, Caltech

Moderated by:
Jonas Kaplan, neuroscientist, associate professor of psychology, co-director, Dana and David Dornsife Cognitive Neuroimaging Center at USC Dornsife

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In a groundbreaking shift, more voters now identify as independent than with any specific political party. This evolution is predominantly driven by millennials and Gen Z voters, who often prioritize issues over party allegiance. Many people also feel a growing disconnect or disillusionment with the traditional parties.

Join us for an enlightening discussion regarding the profound implications of this pivotal change. How could it redefine the political landscape and mold future campaigns? Is this the precursor to the emergence of new political entities?

Join our discussion with:

• Arnon Mishkin, director, FOX News Decision Desk; fellow, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future
• Lisa D. T. Rice, political strategist, keynote speaker, author
• Sara Sadhwani, PhD ’19, assistant professor of politics, Pomona College

Co-moderated by:

• Bob Shrum, director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future
• Mike Murphy, co-director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.

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Dive deep into the shadows of cinema with us as we explore the captivating world of horror films. Originating from the haunting tales of the late 1800s, the horror genre has not only stood the test of time but has flourished, spawning billion-dollar franchises and passionate fan conventions. But beyond the spine-tingling suspense and heart-pounding scares, what deeper truths do these films unveil about our society?

Discover:

• The hidden allure: Why do audiences keep coming back for more?
• The mirror effect: How do horror movies reflect and respond to societal changes
• Cultural evolution: In what intriguing ways have these films influenced and even redefined societal norms?

With:

• Leo Braudy, University Professor; professor of English, USC Dornsife
• Rebekah McKendry, producer, director, writer; adjunct assistant professor, USC School of Cinematic Arts 
• Anna Zlokovic '14, writer, director "Appendage"

Moderated by:
Karen Tongson, professor, gender & sexuality studies, English, and American studies & ethnicity, USC Dornsife

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.