Society, Arts and Humanities

couple walking down lane

Probing Question: Are baby boomers keeping romance alive?

It may be hard to believe, but the "born to be wild" baby boomers once known for free love and sexual liberation are now senior citizens, or soon will be. These days, most baby boomers are more concerned with health and retirement finances than with social revolution. But when it comes to sex and romance, do they still light each other's fires -- or have they become more mild than wild?
Downton Abbey

TV as history teacher? Abington expert weighs in on reality of 'Downton'

A water bottle in a publicity shot for the period drama "Downton Abbey" unleashed harsh criticism and hilarious parodies about the visual authenticity of the series. But it also raises deeper issues about its accuracy in advancing understanding of a remarkable time in British history, from 1912 through the 1920s. Penn State Abington Professor of History Andrew August, whose research focuses on social history, gender and culture in modern British history -- a sweet spot for discussing life on the fictional country estate of Downton Abbey -- weighs in on the cultural and historical accuracy of the wildly popular period drama "Downton Abbey."
ACURA Chinese medicine

Abington student researchers trace paths of ancient Buddhist healers

Three Penn State Abington student researchers embarked on a journey through medieval China this year, tracing the healing paths of six Buddhist medical monks by painstakingly translating ancient texts. Their work with a faculty mentor through the Abington College Undergraduate Research Activities (ACURA) program will help deepen understanding of this unique aspect of Asian culture.
Sandler with mandala

Karen Sandler mandala

The internationalization and diversity of Penn State Abington stand are among Dr. Sandler's legacies. She worked to build the population of international students, supported visiting scholars including a residency by a Tibetan monk and artist. She also encouraged the development of more courses with required travel components. 

Steven Loring

The Age of Love

Filmmaker Steven Loring talks about aging and love at the Rydal Park retirement community near Penn State Abington.