A new book about linguist and social activist Zellig Harris will be celebrated with a reading and reception April 22 featuring author and Vanderbilt University professor Robert F. Barsky.
Barsky, professor of French and comparative literature, has written extensively about linguist Noam Chomsky. Chomsky recommended Harris as a subject to Barsky.
The event marking the release of Zellig Harris: From American Linguistics to Socialist Zionism is free and open to the public from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in Room 101 of Buttrick Hall.
The book examines the life and work of Harris (1909-1992), a vital participant in crucial 20th century conversations about language, technology, labor, politics and Zionism.
“Zellig Harris is deservedly well known for his outstanding contributions to linguistics,” Chomsky said. “Barsky’s inquiry provides a welcome introduction to the life and work of a fascinating person with remarkable talents.”