COURSE DESCRIPTION AND GOAL
This course is designed to present a global approach to the history of civilization from its first beginnings to the onset of the modern era. The course will present the history of an integrated, or at least interconnected, world. Students will study cultural, social, economic and political development in the societies of Europe, Asia, Africa and the pre-Colombian Americas. Particular emphasis will be given to social history and the history of ideas.
Since each of us is influenced to a greater or lesser extent by all of the events of history, we are, as it were, the end result of the historical process. In this sense, then, students should approach this course with an eye to understanding history as a dynamic, evolutionary process. You all know who you are, but this exploration of our earliest roots is designed to provide greater insight into WHY you are who you are.
The course consists of formal lectures and student discussion sessions focused on the assigned readings. Particular emphasis is placed on the interaction of diverse civilizations and cultures. Video and/or other multimedia presentations covering salient subjects will augment the course.