Introduction to American Culture

Have you ever wondered why people see things differently from one another? People's perspectives are a reflection of their values and ways of thinking shaped in turn by historical events and customs passed down from generations. This course aims to give participants a glimpse of American culture through reading and analyzing short texts that express American values and ways of thinking. Covering the span of American history from the colonial era to the present time, we will discuss the following topics: What role did religious foundations play in shaping American thinking? What basic values were embodied in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution? What about the status and role of women in American society, the experience of African-Americans, and the current culture war over the meaning of core American values? Readings will be put into context and explained by the instructor to stimulate lively discussions about the texts and their ideas. It is hoped that by the end of the course, students will have gained a deeper understanding of American culture and be able to apply these insights to their work or personal circumstances.

Students will be able to:
1. discuss major topics in American culture.
2. relate aspects of American culture to a general framework of cultural analysis and to their own cultures.
3. use English at a higher level than previously.

Those who want to understand key aspects of American culture and to gain fresh perspectives into their own cultures and who wish to improve their English (especially vocabulary) through focus on communication about topics that interest them.
English Level: Advanced

Readings provided by the instructor. / Recommended (American Culture: An Anthology of Civilization Texts; ISBN 9780415124409)

Faculty