In this introduction to the discipline of history, the instructor chooses several pressing issues facing the world today and delves into their pasts. The course helps us understand what the study of history can and cannot teach us about the present moment, and the challenges and opportunities of using history to understand our present – and potentially our future, as well. Students will assess historical “truth claims” made across multiple media, how to find and make use of credible scholarship, and how historians make use of primary sources. Assignments will focus on the development of critical reading and strong writing skills. In tutorial discussions, students will practice making effective oral arguments.
In this introduction to the discipline of history, the instructor chooses several pressing issues facing the world today and delves into their pasts. The course helps us understand what the study of history can and cannot teach us about the present moment, and the challenges and opportunities of using history to understand our present – and potentially our future, as well. Students will assess historical “truth claims” made across multiple media, how to find and make use of credible scholarship, and how historians make use of primary sources. Assignments will focus on the development of critical reading and strong writing skills. In tutorial discussions, students will practice making effective oral arguments.
