Abortion, free speech, and the impact of consuming true crime are all topics that students will grapple with during Fall 2026 Chase Society Events, featuring a wide array of guest speakers and activities for the upcoming semester.
At Chase Society events, students are invited to engage in thought-provoking, timely questions in the unique Chase Society atmosphere, where they can make connections with and gain access to outside lecturers and continue their learning beyond the classroom.
“The Chase Society brings Ohio State students together on the biggest moral, political, cultural, and historical questions facing the country,” said Dr. Daniel Gullotta, Chase Society director. “Professors, industry leaders, opinion writers, and other engaging people lead the conversations. No one tells you what to conclude. The point is to give you the tools to conclude for yourself.”
The Fall 2026 Chase Society Events
“Is Compromise on Abortion Even Possible?” presented by Dr. Daniel K. Williams of Ashland University on Sept. 8 at 5 p.m. Abortion remains one of the most divisive issues in American public life, shaping elections, legislation, and even political identities. Given the issue’s moral complexity and political significance, is meaningful compromise possible? Can Americans seek common ground and find policy solutions, or are some disagreements simply irreconcilable?
“Is Religion in America Thriving or Retreating? presented by Dr. Jesse Smith of the Ohio State University on Sept. 22 at 5 p.m. For decades, reports have suggested that belief in God and religious participation are declining across the United States. Yet some recent polls, social media trends, and news stories point to renewed interest in religion among Gen Z. So, which story is true? Is America losing its religion, leveling off, or headed toward a spiritual revival?
“Is Watching Evil… Evil?” presented by Dr. Laura Siscoe of the Ohio State University on Oct. 13 at 5 p.m. True crime documentaries, podcasts, television shows, and films have become some of the most popular forms of entertainment. Millions of people willingly consume stories depicting gruesome violence and horrific crimes. Is this fascination harmless, or does regularly watching evil shape our character in ways we should take seriously?
“Movie Night: Cromwell (1970)” on Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. Disillusioned by the policies of King Charles I (Alec Guinness), Oliver Cromwell (Richard Harris) prepares to leave England for the New World. Instead, he becomes a central figure in the political and religious struggles that erupt into the English Civil War, forever changing the course of Western constitutional history.
“Moral Men and Immoral Compromise? The Question of Slavery at the Federal Convention of 1787” presented by Dr. Constantine Vassiliou of the University of Coloardo, Colorado Springs on Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. The question of slavery was among the most contentious issues debated at the Constitutional Convention. Were the compromises that made the Constitution possible morally defensible, or did they betray the nation’s founding principles?
“Should All Speech (No Matter How Dangerous) Be Protected?” presented by Professor Nathan Coetting of the Adrian College and the University of Toledo College of Law on Nov. 3 at 5 p.m. How far does the First Amendment’s protection of free speech extend? Do citizens have a right to express hateful, offensive, or even dangerous views or can society limit speech sometimes in favor of other interests?
“Movie Night: National Treasure (2004)” on Nov. 17 at 5 p.m. Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with this action-adventure classic! Historian and treasure hunter Benjamin Gates (Nicolas Cage) races to uncover a legendary treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers—beginning with a daring plan to steal the Declaration of Independence.
“Formal Dinner: Why Is Limitless Freedom Producing Diminished Human Beings (By Invitation Only)” presented by Dr. Carl R. Trueman of the Grove City College on Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. Modern society promises unprecedented freedom and individual choice, yet many people report rising loneliness, anxiety, and confusion about identity and purpose. Why has greater personal autonomy not produced greater human flourishing? What have we gained and what might we have lost?
Students interested in becoming involved in the Chase Society can register online by visiting this page.