GENED 390 : The World of Ideas

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

An examination of themes and issues that have had a significant impact upon the world's civilizations. Readings will focus on primary texts representing major historical periods, world cultures, and diverse perspectives. This course will stress critical and analytical thought, drawing upon knowledge obtained in this and earlier core courses. May not be taken on a satisfactory/no credit grade basis.

Prereq: ENGLISH 101 AND ENGLISH 102 , junior standing, and completion of all other required core courses. May not be taken on an S/NC grade basis.

COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

This course will enhance students' ability to do the following:

1. Understand the ways ideas shape their perception of the world.
2. Recognize the ways ideas were formed historically and to understand the ways in which the world is still shaped by ideas advanced hundreds of years ago.
3. Appreciate intellectual traditions of diverse cultures and perspectives.
4. Recognize commonalties and differences among diverse intellectual traditions.
5. Refine their critical and analytical thinking skills in oral and written forms.
6. Deal intelligently with questions and issues concerning ethics and values.
7. Recognize and understand issues, questions, and problems that have been subject to continued human reflection.
8. Appreciate the role of the humanities in students' educational experiences.
9. Interpret different literary works.
10. Develop a meaningful philosophy of life.