German Studies 300 - TOPCS: CULTR & SOC-BRANDING

Topics course. Normally offered both fall and spring semesters: Can a country “brand” itself? Product names such as Mercedes, Ritter Sport, BMW, Adidas, Volkswagen and Braun are known throughout the world. But to what extent are phenomena such as soccer, migration and renewable energy policy part of Germany’s current “brand”? This course examines Germany’s efforts to re-create its “brand” since reunification in 1990 and considers the implications of such branding within the global community. Conducted in German with some readings in English. Prerequisite: GER 250 or the equivalent, or permission of the instructor.