As cardinals gather in Rome to honor Pope Francis and prepare for the upcoming conclave, scholars from the University of Southern California (USC) are providing expert insights on the history of the papacy, the Vatican’s role in global affairs, and the process of electing a new pope.
USC specialists are also commenting on Pope Francis’ influence, highlighting his focus on humility, social justice, and environmental stewardship. “Pope Francis brought fresh energy and a warm human touch to the papacy when he was named Holy Father in 2013. In his first act as Pope, he chose the name ‘Francis’ for its symbolic evocation of a humble and creation-centered saint, perhaps the most famous of all Christian saints,” stated Richard Wood, president of the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. Wood further elaborated on Pope Francis’ stance on environmental issues through his encyclical, Laudato Si’: On Care for our Common Home.
David Albertson, an associate professor of religion at USC Dornsife, offers expertise in the history of Christian thought from medieval to early modern Europe and how theology was influenced by knowledge modes including philosophy and science.
Lisa Bitel, a dean’s professor of religion and professor of history at USC Dornsife, researches the social, cultural, and religious history of medieval Europe. Her current work focuses on religious change and the supernatural in pre-modern Europe.
Cavan Concannon, the John R. Tansey Chair in Christian Ethics, explores early Christianity, the New Testament, and the intersection of religion and politics. His areas of study also include the historical Jesus, Pauline studies, ancient archaeology, and religious theory.
Diane Winston, a professor of journalism and communication at the USC Annenberg School, specializes in religion and the media. As a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, her expertise encompasses religion’s role in politics, news media, and entertainment.
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