Globalization | Good, Bad, and In-Between

Globalization :: Good, Bad, and In-Between

In this class, we examine the cultural paradoxes of contemporary globalization, and study the cultural, linguistic, social and political impact of globalization across international borders and on specific language communities. Students analyze contending definitions of globalization and principal agents of change, and why some of them engender backlash; learn to distinguish what is considered new, hybrid, and traditional; identify the agents, costs and benefits of global networks; and explore how world citizens preserve cultural specificity. Students also develop cultural literacy through study of second language and culture, research, development of virtual materials, and interactions with MIT's international students. Student cannot receive credit without simultaneous completion of a 9-unit language subject. Preference to freshmen.