David Claborn, Ph.D
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Office: Weber Center 242
Phone: (815) 939-5194
dclaborn@olivet.edu
Education
Ph.D., 2007, University of Massachusetts
B.A., 1995, University of North Texas
Professional and Personal Interests
Dr. David Claborn recently completed Ph.D studies in Political Science at the University of Massachusetts in 2007. His dissertation showed that when individual American states attempt to increase religious freedom, they aren't any more successful than states that don't, but both are more successful than the federal government. His teaching interests span the field, and complement the methods of the other political scientist, Dr. Van Heemst.
Professor Claborn's experience outside of the classroom includes working at Francis Schaeffer's L'Abri high in the Swiss Alps, traveling with the Texas Instruments legal team on a $1.5 billion case (they won), and managing an incumbent Congressman's reelection campaign (they won that one, too).
Dave enjoys Sox baseball (Red and White), woodworking, his wife Heather, son Cal and daughter Molly.
Courses Taught
- Introduction to Political Science
- Foundations of International Relations
- American Government
- Developing World: Latin America
- Religion and Politics
- World Regional Geography
Membership in Professional Societies
Research
