January 29, 2025 | UC Santa Barbara
Fulbright Greater Los Angeles hosted an engaging alumni lecture at the University of California, Santa Barbara, featuring Mark Juergensmeyer, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Sociology and Global Studies at UCSB. The event, titled Why God Needs War & War Needs God, brought together scholars, students, and community members for a thoughtful exploration of the intersections between religion, violence, and global conflict.
Drawing on contemporary examples from Ukraine and Iran, Professor Juergensmeyer examined how religious narratives can become intertwined with political power and warfare, offering historical context and analytical insight into some of today’s most pressing international challenges. The talk was held in person at UCSB’s Gevirtz Graduate School of Education and was also made available via Zoom, allowing for broader participation.
The lecture sparked meaningful discussion and reflection among attendees, underscoring Fulbright’s mission to promote critical inquiry, cross-cultural understanding, and informed dialogue on global issues. Events like this highlight the important role Fulbright alumni play in fostering public engagement with complex international topics.