Freaks and Geeks

The phrase "expert from USC" conjures thoughts of film, business and engineering ... but what about conjuring itself? Or cemeteries and monsters?

As we head into Halloween, it's good to know USC has the subject covered. Engineering professor Geoffrey Spedding has studied the aerodynamics of bats. Philosophy professor Edwin McCann is an expert in magic and occultism in the 17th century. Other faculty members can tell you about spook culture ranging from 19th century Gothic lifestyles to modern horror films.

The school's PR department prepared for some scary media inquiries (unrelated to Reggie Bush and O.J. Mayo) with a roster of ghoulish gurus. Here's one professor who sounds like fun:

"Leo Braudy, professor in English and American Literature, has taught a course for many years called 'The Monster and the Detective.' The monsters include Wolfman, Dracula, Freddy Krueger and Jason. He's also a contributor to the newly-published book, 'The Book of Lists: Horror.'"

They may even have a cadre of cadaver experts ... but can any of them dance the Monster Mash?

-- Adam Rose