Ryan Dawkins

Ryan Dawkins is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Carleton College, specializing in American politics, research methods, and urban governance. His work bridges political behavior and institutions, with a focus on identity politics and democratic decline.

• Education: Ph.D. and M.A. in Political Science from University of Colorado – Boulder (2017); M.A. in American History from The Ohio State University; B.A. in History and Political Science from Colorado State University.

Research Interests: Dr. Dawkins explores how political identities shape evaluations of government and institutions, particularly in the context of extreme partisan polarization. His work addresses the challenges of transitioning to a multiracial democracy in the U.S. and examines representation at both federal and local levels.

Teaching: He teaches courses on political psychology, congressional politics, urban political economy, and polarization, emphasizing research methods and mentorship as central to his academic mission.

Publications: His work appears in journals such as Perspectives on Politics, Political Psychology, Political Behavior, and Urban Affairs Review, focusing on intersections of identity, governance, and institutional dynamics.