NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A former anthropologist with the World Bank who teaches at Vanderbilt will discuss the need for both major reform and support for this controversial organization at the next Thinking Out of the (Lunch) Box event on Dec. 3.
Vanderbilt Professor of Philosophy David Wood will lead the conversation with William Partridge, a professor of human and organizational development who worked for many years on environmental issues at the World Bank. The "bank" is actually a specialized agency of the United Nations that provides loans, policy advice, technical assistance and other services to low- and middle-income countries to reduce poverty.
"While critics of the World Bank are correct that funds are sometimes wasted on corrupt regimes and failed projects, the institution remains vital to America and the rest of the world," Partridge said. "I will discuss some of the ways that World Bank policies have helped strengthen impoverished countries in areas such as human rights, democratic governments and environmental regulation."
The conversation and box lunch, presented by Vanderbilt University and the Nashville Public Library, will take place in the Main Library at 615 Church St. Lunch is catered by Provence Breads and CafÈ. This event is free and open to the public. To help defray the cost of the luncheon series, donations will be accepted at the door. Reservations are required. All those planning to attend should call (615) 322-8585 or e-mail lunchbox@vanderbilt.edu.
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Media contact: Ann Marie Deer Owens, (615) 322-NEWS
Annmarie.owens@vanderbilt.edu