Thomas L. Dumm

Thomas L. Dumm is a Professor of Political Science at Amherst College, where he has held academic appointments since 1997, including tenure as department chair (1991-1992, 1998-1999, 2007-2009). His expertise spans Political Theory (Liberalism, Democratic Theory, Critical Theory, Feminist Theory, American Political Thought, Continental Philosophy) and American Politics (National Politics, Political Culture, The Presidency, Law and Society, Race and Gender). He has held significant fellowships including the John Simon Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship (2001-2002). Dumm’s research bridges theoretical rigor with cultural critique, focusing on modern individuality, political aesthetics, and institutional power. His publications include books such as Loneliness As a Way of Life (2008) and edited volumes like Performing Violence (forthcoming 2010). He has contributed over 40 peer-reviewed articles and essays, frequently addressing themes of punishment, sovereignty, and democratic culture. Dumm serves as Editor (Non-Fiction) of The Massachusetts Review and sits on editorial boards for Punishment and Society and Strategies. His academic service includes roles at Amherst College and evaluations for the MacArthur Foundation and Guggenheim Foundation.

Education:

• Ph.D. Government, Cornell University, 1985
• M.A. Political Science, Pennsylvania State University, 1978
• B.A. Political Science, Pennsylvania State University, 1976

Research Interests: Dumm’s work interrogates modern political thought through lenses of disciplinary power, cultural representation, and existential conditions like loneliness. His scholarship engages thinkers like Foucault, Emerson, and Thoreau while addressing contemporary issues such as televised politics, presidential rhetoric, and social justice. Recent projects explore the intersection of biopolitics and family structures, as seen in his collaboration with artist Will Barnet.

Professional Contributions: As founding editor of the Theory&Event journal and a frequent conference keynote speaker, Dumm promotes interdisciplinary dialogue in political theory. His public engagements include BBC Radio interviews and Salon.com features discussing modernity’s cultural and existential challenges.