Kristy A. Leissle
Investigates different meaning of the claims about globalization, a term often used to describe processes of change that take place across and outside of national contexts. Critically examines contemporary global processes in order to explore their impacts on our lives.
In this course, we examine the integration of nation-states through four distinct but overlapping processes of globalization: economic, cultural, environmental, and political. We explore the mechanisms by which markets are inter-linked -- for example, through the post-Fordist global distribution of manufacturing processes -- but also the ways individuals imagine themselves as global citizens -- for example, through aspirations of emigration or new technologies of travel, communication, and information-sharing. We conclude with critical questions regarding whether contemporary conditions in all parts of the world can be sufficiently explained using dominant narratives of globalization, and whether globalizing processes have had distinctly negative or positive impacts.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Class assignments and grading
Two essays, a midterm, and a final exam.