Instructor: David Ekerdt

No image available Biography: Instructor Bio: David Ekerdt, Ph.D., is Professor of Sociology and Gerontology at KU, specializing in work and retirement, focused on the changing role and practice of retirement. He is the editor-in-chief of the "Macmillan Encyclopedia of Aging".

Classes by this instructor


The Coming Struggle Over Social Security

A solvency problem looms for Social Security within the next several years. (Is it going bankrupt?) Decisions must be made in light of a changing economy and recent cuts in customer service. Together, we'll cover the basics of Social Security, essential features of retirement, retirement before Social Security, the Social Security Act of 1935, expansion and modern retirement, reforms of 1983, current pension models, future solvency and reform proposals, political struggle since 1983's "The Playbook," points of debate, what the arguments are really about and notes on political rhetoric in this realm.


Instructor Bio: David Ekerdt, Ph.D., is Professor of Sociology and Gerontology at KU, specializing in work and retirement, focused on the changing role and practice of retirement. He is the editor-in-chief of the "Macmillan Encyclopedia of Aging".


March 5-19, 2026, KU Edwards Campus, Regnier Hall & Online