With a brutal dictator and the growth of the extremist Islamic State sending floods of Syrians pouring into Europe, there may be no greater time in our current history to talk about the importance of humanitarianism. Humanitarianism, in essence, is helping people without expecting anything in return. There are examples of humanitarianism dating back as far as recorded human history. But what inspires humanitarian outreach? Keith David Watenpaugh is a historian of the Modern Middle East and Associate Professor of Modern Islam, Human Rights & Peace who teaches in the Religious Studies and Human Rights Minor programs. His new book “Bread from Stones” analyzes the theory and practice of modern humanitarianism. He joins us ahead of an upcoming talk at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco Friday.

• Commonwealth Club Event
• Between The Sea And The Problem Of Humanity: The Mediterranean's Refugees And The Reason Of Rescue At Sea