Honors College 499CC - HonsThesis-DebatingGlobalizn 1

Globalization will serve as the cornerstone of our study in this two-semester seminar as students undertake their honors thesis. By globalization I mean the increasingly integrated nature of our world's economy, culture and consciousness. Some of the main issues of globalization the course will explore are: strengthening borders against outsiders (refugees, immigrants); increasing borderlessness of technology, which reaches into all corners of the globe and the relationship between globalization and the distribution of income across countries. Within these broad topics, the course will investigate how and why people have access to more goods and a better life in some parts of the world (China, India) and the escalation of poverty in other parts (Jamaica). We will also explore the social impact of globalization on solidarity movements for human rights for example the World Social Forum and the Arab Spring. Another significant feature of globalization is homogenization of cultures (the popularity of McDonald's) and increased awareness of different cultures (eating Sushi). The course will evaluate this effect of globalization from the perspective of its impact on human welfare in several countries. In short, the seminar will explore how globalization can foster increased inclusion and participation in some cases and exclusion in others. (499-Seminar)

Preference in registration given to CHC Seniors using this course toward their Honors Thesis/Project requirement; CHC Juniors as space permits. Contact Deepika Marya at deepikamarya@polsci.umass.edu