Author, activist Cornel West will speak at Wake Forest University

Renowned author, philosopher, and social activist Cornel West will make several appearances this week at Wake Forest University. 

West will first deliver a lecture Thursday afternoon at Wait Chapel. On Friday morning, the provocative scholar will take part in a symposium commemorating the 40th anniversary of his book Prophesy Deliverance!.

In the book, West suggests that Marxist ideology should be incorporated into African American theological perspectives, arguing that class is a stronger influence than race in America.

Following the lecture on Thursday, a question-and-answer period will be co-moderated by Corey D.B. Walker, a Wake Forest humanities professor and director of the school's African American Studies program.

Walker says in a news release that the book Prophesy Deliverance! “remains a critical touchstone for students and scholars who seek intellectual resources for democratic renewal and a more humane world.”

Both events at Wake Forest are free and open to the public, but registration is required. 

West is the author of 20 books. He made headlines this summer when he resigned from Harvard University, accusing the school of “intellectual and spiritual bankruptcy.”