Kevin Leicht, director of the Iowa Social Science Research Center at the University of Iowa, says that in the United States, the term middle class is more of a cultural category than an economic one.

Linda Kerber has arguably been the most influential pioneer in the field of women's studies in the past 41 years, say those who organized a weekend event in celebration of the retired UI professor's career.

Science fiction comes to the stage: The Gallery series of the University of Iowa Department of Theatre Arts will present The Stellification, a student production written by Bella Poynton and directed by Janet Schlapkohl, at 8 p.m., Thursday–Saturday, Oct. 18–20, and at 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 21, in Theatre B of the UI Theatre Building.

Luke Juran, a University of Iowa doctoral student in geography, recently conducted research in post-disaster water sanitation in India through a Fulbright grant. In this video, he shares what inspired his project and how he gave back to the community while exploring the local culture.

A number of campus events over the next few weeks will reflect on the responsibilities of science and scientists to the broader culture, including an exhibit, "Frankenstein: Penetrating the Secrets of Nature," which runs through Nov. 2.

University of Iowa alumna Angela Dalle Vacche will give a lecture, "Cinema and the Museum: Olivier Assayas' Summer Hours (2008)" at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, in the auditorium of Art Building West.

The University of Iowa’s Hancher will present vocal ensemble Anonymous 4 performing love fail by UI alumnus and Pulitzer Prize-winner David Lang Thursday, Oct. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 228 East Jefferson St. in Iowa City.

“In This Moment: Women and Their Songs,” a recital program presented by Katherine Eberle, mezzo-soprano, will showcase the music of living female American musicians at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 17, in the Riverside Recital Hall on the University of Iowa campus.

Kenneth Tse, professor of saxophone in the University of Iowa School of Music, will be joined by Alan Huckleberry, UI associate professor of piano, for a faculty recital at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 9, in Riverside Recital Hall on the UI campus.

University of Iowa political science professor Tim Hagle says that Mitt Romney is under more pressure and needs to prove himself in the first presidential debate at the University of Denver in Colorado.

Vocalist Lila Downs blends Mexican roots music with a host of other styles to create a sound all her own. Hancher will present her at the Englert Theatre on Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

What one thing could President Barack Obama or Gov. Mitt Romney do in the next four years to get the economy going again? Economic and business experts from the University of Iowa offer these ideas.