Academic Affairs

First-Year Reading Experience (FYRE)

The First-Year Reading Experience at Salem State University connects new students to the college community through a shared reading experience, welcoming them to a college culture that values the thoughtful discussion of ideas. On opening day, students meet with faculty, librarians, administrators, staff, and alumni for a conversation about the selected book. The book may also be incorporated into first year courses and events during the academic year. 

2011 FYRE Book: SuperFreakonomics

In 2011-12, the FYRE book is SuperFreakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner. 

SuperFreakonomics, the highly anticipated sequel to the best-selling Freakonomics, was released on October 20, 2009. Steven Levitt, professor of economics at the University of Chicago, and author Stephen Dubner have again teamed together to apply economic reasoning to a wide range of real-world questions. As with the original Freakonomics, SuperFreakonomics is largely based upon the research of Professor Levitt, who has tackled problems inside and outside the field of economics.

To help you think about the book as you read it, consider these questions:

1. What parts of the book made the greatest impression on you? Why?
2. What parts of the book were the least persuasive? Why?  
3. In chapter three, the authors examine what studies tell us about human altruism and apathy. What are their conclusions? Does evidence from your own life correspond with their conclusions? 
4. The authors suggest that solutions to difficult problems can often be inexpensive; they simply require unconventional thinking. Have you solved problems in your life or community by looking at the facts without any preconceptions or moral judgements?  
5. The epilogue suggests that monkey and human behaviors may be similar, motivated by the same instincts.  Does this seem true to you? How might you test your own hypotheses about human nature?