What does it mean to be American? Depending on who you ask within or outside the country, that answer will widely vary. As a country it is both a symbol of economic power and democratic freedom while also having a complicated history of war, oppression, and segregation. From the American Dream to Trumpism, from slavery to 'absolute' freedom,’ this course will study the heart of American culture from a wide range of viewpoints. Themes including history, music, politics, food, immigration, media, language, leisure, geography, government, and education will be explored paying close attention to regional differences, integration of multiculturalism, race relations, the role of women and minorities and the impacts of its institutions on health, conflict, and the environment. In summary, this course will examine the various social structures, historical milestones, and contemporary issues that frame American discourse today.
Students will evaluate these themes through a variety of projects that include multiple forms of media and perspectives. Course activities will enable students to develop skills such as flexible, reflective, creative, and critical thinking to arrive at well-reasoned and evidenced conclusions, as well as working collaboratively with others to effectively communicate. Course as written by an American Professor living in Canada.
- Enseignant: Lucas Sherman