Multiculturalism, Ethnic Diversity, and Debates about Them in Contemporary Europe

Course Number: 82-225

Fulfills Intercultural & Global Inquiry Gen Ed requirement

The heart of this course will explore ethnic and cultural diversity in contemporary Europe, especially Germany, but also France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Greece, the Scandinavian countries, and the countries of eastern Europe. All of these countries have become increasingly diverse ethnically and culturally over the last few decades, and there have been significant debates about immigration and willingness (or lack thereof) to accept refugees from other parts of the world. Some have celebrated Europe’s increasing multiculturalism and diversity, whereas others have criticized it. The goal of the course is to look at both multiculturalism and diversity and also the critics of multiculturalism and diversity. The latter include right-wing or nationalist parties such as Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (Alternative for Germany) and France’s Rassemblement National (National Rally) and also right-wing cultural figures such as the famous French author Michel Houellebecq. The goal of the course is to help students to understand European debates about these issues, and to show where they may differ from or be similar to debates about analogous issues in the United States. Students will be asked to participate actively in class discussion, to write four brief analytical essays, to write four one-page film reactions, to do an oral presentation on a topic of their choice, to complete course readings, and to take two tests.

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Units: 9
Prerequisite(s): None