Sidney Plotkin

Sidney Plotkin is a Professor of Political Science at Vassar College, holding the Margaret Stiles Halleck Chair. He has been affiliated with Vassar since 1981. His research focuses on U.S. political economy, urban politics, land use policies, and the ideas of Thorstein Veblen. Since 2004, he has served as President of the International Thorstein Veblen Association.

Education:

• BA, Political Science, CUNY Brooklyn College
• MA, Political Science, CUNY New York City College of Technology
• PhD, Political Science, CUNY Graduate School and University Center

Teaching & Research: Courses include American Politics (POLI 140), The Military and American Politics (POLI 236). Recent work examines 20th-century radical thought and urban political movements. His scholarship bridges theoretical frameworks with contemporary policy analysis.

Public Engagement: Featured in media discussions on Democratic primaries and post-election dynamics. Collaborated with students on conferences analyzing the 2024 U.S. elections. Frequently cited in policy-related journalism.