0862. Development and Globalization (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1175.)

Use historical and case study methods to study the differences between rich and poor nations and the varied strategies available for development in a globalizing world. Examine the challenges facing developing countries in historical and contemporary context and analyze the main social, cultural, and political factors that interact with the dynamic forces of the world economy. These include imperialism/colonialism, state formation, labor migration, demographic trends, gender issues in development, religious movements and nationalism, the challenges to national sovereignty, waves of democratization, culture and mass media, struggles for human rights, environmental sustainability, the advantages and disadvantages of globalization, and movements of resistance.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Geography & Urban Studies, History, Political Science, Sociology.

0863. Religion in the World (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1174.)

Learn about the major religious traditions found worldwide today: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and several indigenous traditions. Examine the beliefs, practices, and values of these groups in order to understand the world views and ways of life of the people who practice them. Our interdisciplinary analysis and interpretation of specific examples of religious experience will help shed light on the overall meaning of religion and human existence. We will carefully consider examples while also focusing on particular thematic issues, like cosmology and ritual. Develop appreciation for the religious vibrancy and diversity that exist in human cultures while you actively engage in the learning process through class presentation, class participation, paper-writing, and a self-selected field trip.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Critical Languages Center, Philosophy, Religion.

0864. War and Peace (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1172.)

Total war, weapons of mass destruction, genocide. These were not solely inventions of the twentieth century nor are they the natural consequences of a violent human nature. Leaders, armies, and the strategies they pursue are rooted in their social and political context. Weapons are the products of not merely technological but also historical and cultural development. Battles occur on a political and historical terrain. Learn how ancient ideology, medieval technology, modern propaganda, and more have changed how humans wage war and make peace.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: History, Political Science.

0866. World Affairs (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1176.)

We live in a global age when events beyond our borders significantly affect our lives. Sharpen your understanding of international developments, including wars, economic globalization, wealth and poverty, the spread of democracy, environmental degradation, and global pandemics. This course offers an introduction to the study of world affairs that gives you the conceptual tools to deepen your understanding of how major historical and current trends in the world affect your life and that of others around the globe. Readings include historical documents, classic texts in the study of international relations, and current perspectives on the state of the world from multiple disciplinary perspectives.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Geography & Urban Studies, History, Political Science.

0867. World Regions and Cultures: Diversity & Interconnections (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1173.)

How does the process of globalization impact people in different culture regions? Explore this central question through readings, discussions, mapping exercises, field trips to Philadelphia sites and special events that celebrate the international flavor of the city. Focusing on four regions, we will learn how people cope with environmental problems like desertification, population growth, rapid migration to cities, and ethnic and religious clashes. We will investigate why some areas are mired in poverty and violence while others experience a growing economy and peaceful politics. For each region we will read case studies illustrating both cultural continuity and change.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Anthropology, Geography & Urban Studies, Sociology.

0868. World Society in Literature & Film (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1171 (0060).)

Learn about a particular national culture by taking a guided tour of its literature and film. You don’t need to speak a language other than English to take this exciting course, and you will gain the fresh, subtle understanding that comes from integrating across different forms of human expression. Some of the issues that will be illuminated by looking at culture through the lens of literature and film include family structures and how they are changing, national self-perceptions, pivotal moments in history, economic issues, social change and diversity. Each course section focuses on a specific country or culture. Click on the blue, six-digit CRN at the right of the course title in the Course Schedule (TU Courses) to see the specific topic.

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin American Studies, Russian, Spanish.

0964. Honors War and Peace (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1972.)

Total war, weapons of mass destruction, genocide. These were not solely inventions of the twentieth century nor are they the natural consequences of a violent human nature. Leaders, armies, and the strategies they pursue are rooted in their social and political context. Weapons are the products of not merely technological but also historical and cultural development. Battles occur on a political and historical terrain. Learn how ancient ideology, medieval technology, modern propaganda, and more have changed how humans wage war and make peace. (This is an Honors course.)

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the History department.

0968. Honors World Society in Literature & Film (3 s.h.) Core: IS.

(Formerly: GE-WRLD 1971 (H060).)

Learn about a particular national culture by taking a guided tour of its literature and film. You don’t need to speak a language other than English to take this exciting course, and you will gain the fresh, subtle understanding that comes from integrating across different forms of human expression. Some of the issues that will be illuminated by looking at culture through the lens of literature and film include family structures and how they are changing, national self-perceptions, pivotal moments in history, economic issues, social change and diversity. Each course section focuses on a specific country or culture. Click on the blue, six-digit CRN at the right of the course title in the Course Schedule (TU Courses) to see the specific topic. (This is an Honors course.)

Note: This General Education `World Society` pilot course fulfills the Core International Studies (IS) requirement. This course is offered by the following departments: Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin American Studies, Russian, Spanish.
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