Person Place Thing with Randy Cohen Michael Roth
Jan 4, 2025
Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University and former kitchen worker there, shares his journey from student to leader. He humorously discusses the shift from worker to authority when entering the kitchen. Roth delves into the power of collaborative, blue-collar experiences in fostering connections among students. He reflects on the significance of meaningful work and its impact on personal growth, emphasizing how practical engagement can shape not just individual lives, but broader societal narratives.
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Freud's Influence
- Michael Roth's uncle gifted him Freud's introductory lectures on psychoanalysis, sparking a lifelong fascination.
- Despite facing criticism, Roth continued studying and teaching Freud, even writing about him and his grandson.
Freud's Jewish Connection
- Freud's work, though not traditionally observant, is deeply ingrained in Jewish culture and thought.
- Its pessimistic view, lack of redemption promise, and focus on the conflict of desires reflect this cultural influence.
Kitchen Crucible
- As a Wesleyan student, Roth worked in a fraternity kitchen, finding respite from academic pressures.
- The kitchen became a meaningful space where he learned practical skills, teamwork, and the value of shared experience.
