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International Studies Course Descriptions

Introductions to International Studies

 

Open to first- and second-year students

 

110 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: GLOBALIZATION—HOMOGENEITY AND HETEROGENEITY

Globalization is upon us, resulting in unprecedented cultural interpenetration and civilizational encounter. Most of what animates this condition is old. However, the contemporary velocity, reach, and mutations of these forces suggest a new "world time," full of contradictions, perils, and promises. This course introduces students to globalization by asking What is globalization, and how does one study it? What are the principal forces (social groups, ideas, institutions, and ecology) that shaped and propel it? What are its consequences, and how do we respond? Open to first- and second-year students. Every fall. (4 credits)

 

111 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: LITERATURE AND GLOBAL CULTURE

One of the most significant trends of the current era has been globalization: the shrinking of distances, the greater interpenetration of the world's peoples, and the rise, perhaps, of global culture. Yet it is too simple to say, "it's all a big mix," for the questions of how the mixing is done, and who mixes, are complex. The study of literature illuminates these questions. By reading important recent texts, this course tackles "world" questions: what does it mean to be from a certain place? what is a culture? and who are we in it? We'll link personal readings in dialogue with the world. Texts will be drawn from U.S. multicultural, "world," and travel literature, and rich theoretical readings. Open to first- and second-year students. Every spring. (4 credits)

 

112 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: GLOBALIZATION, MEDIA, AND CULTURAL IDENTITIES

This course investigates the effects of globalization on worldwide cultural identities, with media and popular culture as the primary focus of inquiry. We will interrogate where cultural identity and symbolic communities come from and consider the politics of common culture. We will ask who defines meanings, and what meanings are omitted. Combining theory, worldwide media (film, video, e-media, music and more), and case studies, we will explore numerous paradigms (modernization, cultural imperialism, post-modernism, post-structuralism) as frameworks of understanding. Open to first- and second-year students. Alternate years. (4 credits)

 

113 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: GLOBALIZATION IN THEORY AND CONTEXT

This course develops a base of knowledge, concepts, and analytical skills for engaging with International Studies' multi-dimensional concerns. Ranging across disciplines but with an emphasis on social science, we study global theories of interaction and conflict between human groups, situate globalization historically, and explore sites and implications of increasing encounter. Focusing on culture, people flows, nationalism and ethnicity, democratization, security, religious fundamentalism, gender, and the environment, we examine how particular cases reflect broader processes. Open to first- and second-year students. Every year. (4 credits)

 

114 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL STUDIES: INTERNATIONAL CODES OF CONDUCT

Can we all live by one set of rules? This course investigates the broad field of global study by addressing fresh and age-old issues in international law from the personal to the global, including borders, sources and enforcement of international law, law of the sea, immigration and asylum, post-national federation, colonization, world order, and global citizenship. Readings include case studies, memoirs, fiction, and other texts focusing on individuals, cultures, and states. Open to first- and second-year students. Every year. (4 credits)

 

Intermediate Courses

 

202 GLOBAL MEDIA INDUSTRIES (Same as Humanities and Media and Cultural Studies 202)

Global media is the world's most influential "consciousness industry." As such, the way it is organized vitally impacts global views. How is global media organized, who owns it, and how has it transformed? When did a "global media system" emerge, and where is it heading? In this course, we will investigate the historical and contemporary struggles by various groups to determine the course of globalization, particularly through media, and consider contesting paradigms that have been offered. Next offered in 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

211 CONTEMPORARY ARAB SOCIETY

This introductory course offers a selective survey of contemporary Arab society, culture, and politics. It draws on a mix of recent materials (including media, fiction, reports, and cultural criticism) to develop an understanding of modern Arab history and society and the place of Arabs in the contemporary world. Students will also develop an individual focus on a given country, sub-region, or pan-Arab theme or issue. Every year. (4 credits)

 

225 COMPARATIVE ECONOMIC SYSTEMS (Same as Economics 225)

This course examines the workings of economic systems from the perspective of the incentives facing the firm and consumer. The course provides an introduction to the economics of information and organization which is used to evaluate resource allocation under the specific institutional environment of different economic systems. Our understanding of the incentive system is then used to evaluate the overall economic system. The focus of the course is primarily on the U.S., Japan and the former Soviet Union/Russia. As time permits the course may examine China, Germany and Central Europe. Prerequisite: Economics 119. Spring semester. (4 credits)

 

245 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS

This course offers a theoretical and practical introduction to the study and promotion of human rights. Using broad materials, it focuses on the evolution and definition of key concepts, the debate over "universal" rights, regional and international institutions, core documents, the role of states, and current topics of interest to the human rights movement. Open to first- and second-year students. Every year. (4 credits)

 

260 GLOBAL MEDIA GENRES AND AUDIENCES

Building on "Global Media Industries" (a recommended but not required prerequisite), this course focuses on the shape and effects of specific global media. We examine the transformation of old media genres and the emergence of new global ones, including the telenovela, Bollywood film, MTV, animé, Bhangra, and hip-hop, as well as transnational audience formation. We consider questions of cultural imperialism, self-representation, and media control. Alternate years; not offered in 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

265 TRANSLATION AS CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION (Same as Russian 265)

When communication takes place across language barriers, it raises fundamental questions about meaning, style, power relationships, and traditions. This course treats literary translation as a particularly complex form of cross-cultural interaction. Students will work on their own translations of prose or poetry while considering broader questions of translation, through critiques of existing translations, close comparisons of variant translations, and readings on cultural and theoretical aspects of literary translation. Advanced proficiency in a second language required. Alternate years. (4 credits)

 

272 POST-NATIONALISM: THE POST-SOVIET SPHERE (Same as Russian Studies 272)

The USSR's 1991 dissolution ended one of history's great experiments. Socialism sought to dissolve ethnicity and overcome ethnic conflict with a focus on equality. Instead it exacerbated nationalism and created-separated identities. But how? Topics include ethno-creation, control, and resistance; ethnic animosities and the USSR's destruction; new states after 1991; "diaspora" populations beyond ethnic homelands; local rebellions; new "native" dictatorships; and recent international organizations. Alternate years; next offered Spring 2008. (4 credits)

 

275 WORK, ETHICS AND VOCATION IN THE ERA OF GLOBALIZATION

Macalester students widely seek to do "global good." Yet the concrete effects of many transnational careers are unclear. Positive worldly transformation? Imposition of Western values? This course examines ethics and consequences in international elite agency, focusing on cosmopolitan lives and selected professions, capped by a highly tailorable final project. Recent Macalester alumni serve as resources to support rich inquiry in transnational vocation. Alternate years; not offered in 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

281 COMPARATIVE GLOBAL NEWS: FROM CNN TO AL JAZEERA (Same as Humanities and Media and Cultural Studies 281)

We know the world watches a different war—but just how different and why? In this methodological and analytical course, we will follow two news networks (ideally CNN and Al-Jazeera) for a semester and analyze them using course concepts for analyzing news (frames, sources, languages), contrasting different theories that explain the shape of news (elite domination, political ideologies, cultural difference, media ownership, journalistic routines). Alternate years. (4 credits)

 

285 ETHNICITY AND NATIONALISM IN CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE

This course explores ethnic nationalism's causes and consequences in Eastern Europe. Drawing on several disciplines, we begin by examining the core concepts and theories in the contemporary study of nationalism. We then explore both the historical roots of Eastern European nationalisms, and their implications for democracy, minority inclusion, regional stability, and European integration. Alternate years; not offered 2007–2008 (4 credits)

 

289 MODERN ISLAM

This course surveys major Islamic social and intellectual movements from the late 19th century to today. We begin with a basic history, moving on to the thought systems of modern Islam. Then we examine a few illustrative intellectual biographies and social movements. Readings will be primary texts by prominent modern Islamic thinkers, and studies of modern Islamic movements. Students will also be guided in exploring further thinkers and movements of their choice. Next offered in 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

300 ADVANCED FEMINIST/QUEER THEORIES AND METHODOLOGIES (Same as Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies 300)

This course is an in-depth study of some specific theories and methodologies on which contemporary feminist and queer thinkers have based their analysis, critique, and reconstruction of men's and women's roles. Some guiding questions are: What is a nation? Who are its citizens? How do language and gender roles shape the ways we imagine our roles as men and women? Do sexuality or economy affect how we subscribe to or resist political ideologies? In previous offerings, the course has explored the intersection of Postcolonialism (specifically gendered critiques of colonizing sociopolitical structures) with Postmodernism (specifically gendered critiques of language and sexuality). The course will include film, photography, music, and the writings of Butler, Foucault, Chodorow, Kristeva, hooks, Spivak, and Trinh, among others. It offers ways to create links with local community and social-work organizations. Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of the instructor, and at least one intermediate-level Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies core course. Alternate years. Next offered 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

311 MEDIA AND DEMOCRACY IN ASIA

This course examines print and electronic media in multiple East Asian nations in conjunction with an examination of democracies and authoritarian governments. Looking at cultural theory, political discourse, government transitions and transformations, and media including newspapers, television, and photography, the course seeks, from both "Asian" and "Western" perspectives, to articulate the relationships between liberalized media and democratic societies. Alternate years; not offered in 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

317 WRITERS AND POWER: THE EUROPEAN EAST IN THE 20TH CENTURY

Eastern European writers and filmmakers have long been prominent figures, reflecting their confrontation with the 20th century's three most powerful ideologies: fascism, communism, and democracy. This course explores the interactions between writers and these systems of power in the works of major figures such as Ionesco, Kundera, Havel, Milosz, Forman, and Kusturica. We follow written and cinematic engagements with power at both social and individual levels, and extend to broad questions of history and community. Alternate years; next offered Spring 2008. (4 credits)

 

325 CHINA, RUSSIA AND CENTRAL EUROPE IN TRANSITION (Same as Economics 325)

This course surveys the theoretic and empirical literature on Soviet-style central planning and the transition to a market economy. The economic history of central planning is examined with emphasis on the experience of the Soviet Union and its variants in Eastern Europe and China. The tool of analysis is the branch of economics known as the economics of organization and information, which will be used to analyze the operation, strengths, and limitations of central planning. The legacy of central planning forms the backdrop for an examination of the transition to a market economy. Prerequisites: Economics 119 and one 200s level Economics course; Economics 221 or 225 are recommended. Alternate years; next offered Fall 2007. (4 credits)

 

345 ADVANCED THEMES IN HUMAN RIGHTS

This course closely investigates critical issues facing today's human rights movement. Using a case-study approach, it explores the cultural, historical, and political context of human rights violations, and the philosophical and practical dilemmas involved in constructing responses. We first focus on broadly contested rights, and then examine reasons for and responses to massive human rights tragedies. Every spring. Prior coursework on human rights, or instructor's permission, required. (4 credits)

 

358 CULTURE, MEDIA, AND NATIONALISM (Same as Humanities and Media and Cultural Studies 358)

What is a nation, as opposed to a state or ethnic community? Why does the "nation" command so much of our identity? The nation, unlike the state, exists in the hearts and minds of its members, sustained daily through imagining community—a project that the media are especially tasked with. Taking the "nation" as a media product, the course will examine its production (political economy), textual construction and consumption/reproduction. Alternate years; next offered 2008–2009. (4 credits)

 

362 CULTURE AND GLOBALIZATION (Same as Anthropology 362)

The world is far more interconnected today than ever before, but what does this mean in terms of culture? This course looks at the impact of globalization on cultures and at examples of global cultures such as tourists and immigrants, media and popular cultures, world cities, and transnational intellectuals, ethnicities and ideologies. It also looks at the way cultures interact at geographic borders and in the margins of society. Alternate years. (4 credits)

 

364 CULTURE AND REVOLUTION (Same as Russian 364)

This course examines the relationship between cultural and political change during three very different revolutions: France 1789, Russia 1917, Iran 1979. How do people change when governments are overturned? How do revolutions shape popular consciousness? Do people understand events as revolutionaries intend? To answer these questions, we will examine symbols and political ideologies, mass media, education, social identities, the culture of violence, popular participation and resistance, and other issues. Readings will include revolution-inspiring works of Voltaire and Rousseau, Marx and Lenin, Khomeini and the Koran. We will read sympathetic and antagonistic contemporary accounts, and look at popular culture to see how events were understood. Fashion and etiquette, comics and caricatures, movies and plays will be used. Alternate years; next offered 2008–2009. (4 credits)

 

367 POSTCOLONIAL THEORY (Same as Humanities and Media and Cultural Studies 367 and English 367)

Traces the development of theoretical accounts of culture, politics and identity in Africa, South Asia, the Caribbean and related lands since the 1947–1991 decolonizations. Readings include Fanon, Said, Walcott, Ngugi and many others, and extend to gender, literature, the U.S., the post-Soviet sphere, and Europe. The course bridges cultural, representational, and political theory. Prior internationalist and/or theoretical coursework strongly recommended. Alternate years; next offered Spring 2008. (4 credits)

 

368 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND THE GLOBAL FUTURE (Same as Environmental Studies 368)

This course thoroughly examines the concept of sustainable development. We will define the term, examine its history, and evaluate its political, philosophical, scientific, and economic significance. Implementation of sustainable development in both the world's North and South are considered. Close attention is given to non-governmental organizations and nation-states, the loss of global biodiversity, and existing and proposed remedial actions. Prior coursework in international, development, political, scientific, and/or environmental issues is strongly recommended. Every spring. (4 credits)

 

372 POST-NATIONALISM: THE EUROPEAN UNION

The European Union aims to overcome nationality for the common good. Its successes have challenged traditional customs and identities, and it has stumbled over cultural questions, foreign policy, and constitutional foundations. Topics will include genesis of the EU; erosion of national sovereignty and consequent anxieties; European institutions vs. local control; cultural norms confronted with EU economic, political, and human rights; incorporating new member-states, and the very notion of "Europe." Throughout we will ask whether one can get "beyond nationalism." Alternate years; not offered 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

384 LANGSTON HUGHES: GLOBAL WRITER (Same as English 384)

The great African American writer Langston Hughes (1902-1967) is best know as the poet laureate of the Harlem Renaissance. But his career was vaster still. He was a Soviet screenwriter, Spanish Civil War journalist, African literary anthologist, humorist, playwright, translator, social critic, writer of over 10,000 letters, and much more. This course engages Hughes's full career, bridging race and global issues, politics and art, and makes use of little-known archival materials. Spring semester. (4 credits.)

 

Advanced Courses

 

Students should have at least two courses in international studies including an Introduction to International Studies, or the permission of the instructor.

 

480 PARADIGMS OF GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

Leadership is among the deepest features of associational life, pervading every profession and institution, especially in the age of complex global change. Thus this seminar explores leadership. We begin with the relationship between structure and agency, and then focus on vision and invention, integrity and legitimacy, flexibility and decisiveness. Readings draw from Western, Islamic, and Chinese sources. The main paper will focus on a major individual from any century or locale, chosen by the student. Open to juniors and seniors in any department. Spring semester. (4 credits)

 

Senior Seminars

 

485 SENIOR SEMINAR: CONFRONTING GLOBAL HATRED

Drawing on several disciplines, this course confronts global hatred from three angles. The first is the hater's internal world and looks at how human nature, genetic structure/instincts, and individual psychology may foster hatred. The second is external, exploring the role history, culture, ideology, social structure, religion, and mass psychology play. The third seeks to apply the insights gained from the first two, asking: how might we break the devastating cycles of hatred so present in our world? Alternate years; next offered Spring 2008. (4 credits.)

 

488 SENIOR SEMINAR: UNIVERSALISM: CONFRONTING GLOBAL THOUGHT

Rapid globalization in all areas of modern life raises afresh the question of universalism: do we live in one world or many? This course reviews attempts at thinking the world as one. Varying from year to year, the course ranges across world-historical studies, geographic and regional studies, theories of Weltliteratur, debates in the Americas and the Caribbean, contemporary cultural theory, and other topics. Throughout, we will ask: in whose interest is the universal? is there any local left? does global mean homogeneous? is it possible to be cosmopolitan? A course less about research or fact than about thought. Fall semester. (4 credits)

 

489 SENIOR SEMINAR: PARADIGMS OF WORLD ORDER

The end of the Cold War eliminated a large bifurcation of international society. However, the initial shock of this event have given way to fresh arguments about transnational life. For some, the situation is seen as the disappearance of an aberration, and the return of the "natural" Western modernization, progress, free markets and liberal democracy. Others see a moment of truth: the unveiling of deeper, more complicated divides, requiring fundamental rethinking and a new world order. Through various readings, this senior seminar interrogates these and other interpretations of the interregnum and their correlative visions. Prerequisite: senior standing. Not offered 2007–2008. (4 credits)

 

604 TUTORIAL

Closely supervised individual or small group study for advanced students on a subject not available through regular offerings. Every semester. (2 or 4 credits)

 

614 INDEPENDENT PROJECT

An opportunity for advanced students to pursue independent research under the supervision of a sponsoring faculty member. Prerequisites: an Introduction to International Studies, junior standing, and a written proposal to the faculty supervisor and department chair. Every semester. (2 or 4 credits)

 

624 INTERNSHIP

Internships join the intellect with practical internationalist experience. Students first identify a specific placement, and agree on objectives and means to gauge progress. Prerequisites: an Introduction to International Studies, sophomore standing, and I.S. faculty sponsorship. Every semester. (4 credits)

 

634 PRECEPTORSHIP

Work assisting a faculty member in planning and teaching a course. Prerequisite: advanced proficiency in the area of study and invitation by a faculty member. Every semester, depending on instructor need. (4 credits)

 

644 HONORS INDEPENDENT

Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of a senior honors thesis. Every semester. (2 or 4 credits)

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