
John McWhorter Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Speaking Fee:
$10,000 to $20,000
Travels From:
NYC - New York City
Travels From:
NYC - New York City
Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Secondary Topic Category:
Journalists / News Media / Global Outlook / Current Events
Secondary Topic Category:
Journalists / News Media / Global Outlook / Current Events
John McWhorter Speaker Profile: At A Glance
John McWhorter is Associate Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University, teaching linguistics, Western Civilization and music history. He is a regular columnist on language matters and race issues for Time and CNN, writes for the Wall Street Journal "Taste" page, and writes a regular column on language for The Atlantic. McWhorter earned his PhD in linguistics from Stanford University in 1993 and is the author of The Power of Babel, Doing Our Own Thing, Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue, The Language Hoax and most recently Words on the Move and Talking Back, Talking Black.
John McWhorter is a distinguished academic and influential public commentator known for his expertise in linguistics and insightful views on race, culture, and society. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, John exhibited an early interest in languages, a passion that would guide his future academic pursuits. He completed a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, followed by a master's degree in American Studies from New York University, and later achieved a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Stanford University. This robust educational foundation laid the groundwork for his multifaceted career.
McWhorter's academic tenure has been marked by prolific contributions to the study of Creole languages and English's ever-evolving nature. As a professor at Columbia University, he has inspired countless students with his dynamic teaching style and depth of knowledge. His lectures often delve into the intricacies of language evolution and its impact on cultural identity. Beyond the classroom, McWhorter has authored several books, including "The Power of Babel: A Natural History of Language" and "Nine Nasty Words: English in the Gutter: Then, Now, and Forever," which reflect his ability to make complex linguistic concepts accessible and engaging to a broad audience.
In the realm of public discourse, John McWhorter is renowned for his thought-provoking commentary on race and culture. He has been a notable contributor to various prominent publications, including The Atlantic and The New York Times, where he often challenges conventional narratives and champions nuanced discussions. His candid and often contrarian viewpoints have sparked meaningful debate, furthering understanding of the complexities surrounding race relations in America. McWhorter has also extended his voice through podcasts, where listeners can engage directly with his insights on contemporary issues.
Outside of his academic and writing endeavors, McWhorter is a sought-after speaker and commentator, delivering keynote addresses at conferences and events that resonate with audiences eager for fresh perspectives. His ability to meld linguistic expertise with cultural critique makes his presentations highly impactful and memorable. McWhorter not only informs but also encourages introspection and dialogue among his audiences.
John McWhorter's enduring influence is a testament to his dedication to fostering thoughtful dialogue across disciplines. With a career that spans academia, writing, and public speaking, he continues to inspire and challenge audiences worldwide. His work serves as a reminder of the power of language to shape our understanding of society and each other.