Polis Research Blog

Political scientists at Duke University draw upon a variety of theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches to produce cutting-edge research that enhances our understanding of politics. Polis is committed to showcasing political science research at Duke and to facilitating its creation.

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Rebecca Zeltsman (PPS ’24): “Drawing the Line — The Harmful Reality of Scapegoating the Civilian”

The western world’s alienation of civilians of Russian origin will leave long-lasting effects that are incredibly harmful to individual well-being. Vladimir Putin’s ruthless invasion of Ukraine has unmistakably sparked worldwide fear of one of the most colossal humanitarian violations of our lifetime. Russia has acted barbarically and inflicted brutal force on Ukrainian civilians and cities. However, Russian-Americans that have established businesses in the U.S or athletes of Russian descent qualified to run in marathons now being stripped of their careers due to their background is far from justifiable. Continue reading→

Grace Endrud (PPS ’24): “The Humanitarian Crisis of the Decade: Why Biden – and America – Stand for Ukraine”

After months of rising tensions, Vladimir Putin launched an invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The conflict has had a staggering humanitarian toll: 2,685 civilians have been killed and another 4.1 million refugees have fled their homes. The EU crisis commissioner warned Europe to prepare for over seven million internally displaced Ukrainians; this level of displacement would make Ukraine the largest refugee crisis in recent memory. Given Jake Sullivan’s prediction the war will continue for “months,” the crisis will only escalate further. Continue reading→

Aziz Abdullaev (PPS ’23): “The World is Accepting the Uyghur Genocide”

Roughly every tenth Uyghur was forced into concentration camps by Chinese authorities without any trial or on baseless accusations. In camps, Uyghurs are beaten, raped, tortured, and punished for speaking their native language and exercising religion. Children of detainees are placed in state orphanages where, again, they are punished for speaking their language and are brainwashed with fear and aggression. Continue reading→

Evelyn Shi (PPS ‘24): “To Avoid War with China, The U.S. Should Make Its Support for Taiwan Clear”

Rising tension between Taiwan and China poses the biggest threat to Asia’s geopolitical stability this year. The Biden administration must navigate this fragile relationship carefully to avoid the disastrous risk of a full-out war between the U.S. and China. Yet the U.S.’ current approach — being purposefully vague about its support for Taiwan — is ineffective against an increasingly aggressive China. Instead, Washington should make it clear that it would defend Taiwan from a Chinese invasion while reminding Beijing that the U.S. does not support Taiwanese independence. Biden must walk a fine line between these two interests. Continue reading→

Professor McCorkle on the New NC Government, The Chronicle

Professor McCorkle on the New NC Government, The Chronicle Professor McCorkle has been quoted in The Chronicle on the newly-elected NC state government. He discussed the possibility of Republicans in the House overriding a veto and major policy implications from GOP wins in the legislature. These include a potential “Parent’s Bill of Right’s,” anti-critical race theory legislation, private school voucher programs, gerrymandering and medicaid expansion. McCorkle argues that abortion will be the “biggest test for the Republicans” as restrictions are “more than a distinct possibility.” However, disagreements within the Republican party may arise from those who would want a total... Continue reading→