Cognitive Science 0221 - Political Culture

Every society offers public rituals, formal instruction and places of sacred memory whose purpose is to foster a common political identity like nationalism. Some of these devices appear natural and timeless; others are obviously invented. Some exist in peaceful periods; others are meant to galvanize people for warfare. This course, whose focus is the contemporary US, introduces their analysis. We will explore conceptions of citizenship, history teaching, wartime censorship, conspiracy thinking and life-style politics. Students will write an essay, take part in an issue-specific group and complete a final project.

Mind, Brain, and Information Independent Work Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.