Amy Kass

Amy Kass (1940-2015) was an American scholar and educator known for her work in the fields of American political thought, civic education, and the study of marriage and family. She held positions at the University of Chicago and the American Enterprise Institute.

Kass was particularly noted for her dedication to undergraduate teaching and her efforts to reinvigorate the study of classic texts and great books. Her courses often focused on themes such as the American Founding, the meaning of citizenship, and the moral dimensions of everyday life. She emphasized close reading and thoughtful discussion as pedagogical methods.

With her husband, Leon Kass, she co-edited several influential volumes, including "Wing to Wing, Oar to Oar: Readings on Courting and Marrying" and "What So Proudly We Hail: The American Soul in Story, Song, and Speech." These works reflected their shared interest in exploring the cultural and moral underpinnings of American society.

Her scholarship and teaching aimed to foster a deeper understanding of American principles and to promote responsible citizenship. She was a strong advocate for the importance of the humanities in shaping character and cultivating informed participation in public life.