Benjamin Isaak Gross, Ph.D., is associate professor of political science at Jacksonville State University. He earned his B.S. and M.A. from Northern Illinois University and his Ph.D. from the University of North Texas. Dr. Gross has contributed book chapters on the thought of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, as his research focuses on modern political theory, science, and happiness. In addition, Dr. Gross is director of the Tocqueville Lecture Series and co-editor of Compass: An Undergraduate Journal of American Political Ideas. He lives in Jacksonville with his wife and three children. In addition, he serves as a local Cub Scout den leader, enjoys outdoor activities, and is a spectator of sports.