Michael  Palmer
Professor of Political Science

Michael Palmer is an elder statesman of the Department of Political Science The range and depth of his knowledge of political philosophy is extraordinary—from the classical Pre-Socratic Greeks to the post-moderns—but he is perhaps best known as one of the foremost North American scholars of Thucydides.

It is an understatement to say that, without him, his students would be denied access to the foundations of their discipline; but he contributes to a true liberal education of students at UMaine in other ways: he works tirelessly in the Honors College, offering a variety of lectures and tutorials, and playing a key role teaching in its core curriculum.

Michael is a widely published scholar, including Masters and Slaves, a volume of his collected essays, which testifies to the significance of his research, and an internationally acclaimed interpretation of the classic movie “Casablanca.” In fact, in two weeks, the French government is flying him to Washington for two days of interviews about it with a renowned European documentary film-maker. This year, Michael won a grant to organize a highly successful guest lecture series for a new Program in Western Civilization and American Liberty. It is testimony to his influence and esteem that he was able to bring to UMaine a highly distinguished and diverse array of internationally recognized scholars for this series.

In sum, Michael Palmer is the epitome of the teacher-scholar. In recognition of his work, Michael won the 2006 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Outstanding Faculty Award in Teaching and Advising. Truly, a worthy recipient! We salute him for 25 years of dedicated and exemplary service.