STSH-6040

Cultures of Inquiry

An historical overview of the contrast between universal and local theories of knowledge. Readings begin with classic philosophy (Descartes, Hume, Kant, etc.), and the break from these universalist frameworks through modernist theories for cross-cultural comparison of knowledge systems (indigenous, national, folk, etc.). These in turn are critiqued through postmodern cultural theory, including popular culture studies, cyberculture, and postcolonial studies. Annually.

3 credit hours