http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-980432.mp3
Albany, NY – In today's Academic Minute, Dr. Matthew Immergut of Purchase College reveals that charisma is not an attribute that can be possessed, but a sociological relationship to be cultivated.
Matthew Immergut is currently an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Purchase College, SUNY. His primary field is the sociology of religion, with a focus on charismatic authority. He is currently working on a paper examining why, in the face of disconfirming evidence, people continue to believe in charismatic leaders. In addition, he is currently working on a meditation book, a documentary about three-year silent retreat, as well as investigating the effects of meditation in the context of the college classroom.