Program to trace impact of compters on society

A Jan. 27 public program will examine the history of computers, especially as they affect social science research.

To be held in the Colvard Union small auditorium, the 3:30 p.m. multimedia event will be led by Dr. Martin L. Levin. The presentation is part of the 1998-99 lecture series sponsored by the campus chapter of Sigma Xi scientific research society.

In addition to serving as head of MSU's department of sociology, anthropology and social work, Levin is the Thomas L. Bailey Professor of Sociology at the university.

"The presentation will trace the history of machine-based data processing and the development of what we now call computers," Levin said.

"In a couple of historical examples, I'll show how social science research affected the development of computational devices," he added. "We also will examine how current developments will affect the way we do research in the future."

For more information on the lecture, contact Dr. Frank Howell at 325-2014 or by e-mail at fmh1@ra.msstate.edu.