Topics in Global Studies:

What does it mean to understand a country? To learn about its history, culture, and language? Is that enough? In this course, students will explore the core element that shapes every country-people. Who are the people inhabiting today's Russia? Why do they support Putin (do they?) and his policy? What underlies their decision to go fight Ukraine, glorify wars and expansion? Why don't they feel guilty for the crimes committed by their nation? How likely is Russia to turn to the European path and become a democracy? In each class, we will try to find the answers to these challenging questions. Misperceptions of Russian society and misunderstandings of who Russians really are have already resulted in a chain of dramatic mistakes in building US-Russian relations. Maybe it's time to switch attention from political leaders to the people who choose them. What shapes their lives, what are their values, and what makes them unique to US citizens? Finding answers to these questions is a way not only to understand Russia but also for students to learn about themselves through contrast and comparison.
Course Attributes: EN H; AS LCD; BU IS

Topics in Global Studies:

GLOBAL STUDIES 3008

Section 01