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Pinker, a professor at Harvard University, will speak at 7 p.m. in the Ojibwe Grand Ballroom of Davies Center. The presentation is free and open to the public, but .

The presentation will examine how universities can foster open dialogue, critical thinking and the quest for knowledge through the exchange of ideas. The talk is sponsored by the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership, UW-Eau Claire’s The Forum series and the Menard Center for Constitutional Studies.

Pinker conducts research on a variety of topics in psychology and cognitive science, including common knowledge, language acquisition, emotion, the moral sense, rationality and trends in violence.

Pinker is known for his groundbreaking research and influential books, including “Enlightenment Now” and “Rationality.” He has been recognized as one of Time’s “100 Most influential People.”

Pinker is an important speaker for people to hear because he is a committed scientist who values free inquiry and the search for truth, says Dr. Adam Kunz, assistant professor of political science. Pinker’s message is that humans are ultimately rational beings trying to make sense of the world, both personally and collectively, Kunz says.

“Even if we might not always agree with Pinker’s conclusions — and I don’t always — it is absolutely the case that he works hard to defend reason, critical thinking and vigorous debate,” Kunz says.

Kunz says the role of universities like UW-Eau Claire is to preserve, advance and disseminate knowledge.

“Because our university is committed to the quest for knowledge, we also recognize that controversial topics are morally and ethically complex,” Kunz says. “Bringing speakers of all varieties to campus allows us to exercise our ‘moral judgment muscles.’ Pinker’s visit will likely challenge just about every listener to consider: What do I believe and why? That experience makes us better students, teachers, colleagues and citizens.”