Time Schedule:
Michael L. Gillespie
BIS 308
Bothell Campus
Examines a central problem associated with the nature, varieties, values, and transmission of cultures. Alternative problems to be emphasized include the cultural relativity of truth and value, multi-cultural education, and knowledge and practice. Emphasizes philosophical texts. Also considers writings from sociology, anthropology, history and literature.
Class description
The main aim of the course is to provide students with an opportunity to develop their understanding of art, artists, and the arts in society. What is art? Why do images, music, stories, dramas, and dances have such power and significance in human experience? What are some of the main views of the role of the arts in culture and society? Are the arts thought of in similar ways among the diverse cultures of the world? Why do many people find aesthetic experiences a source of value in their lives? What is happening to the arts in the contemporary world of mass media, technology, and global communications? As we explore these and other questions, it is hoped that students will deepen their understanding and broaden the scope of their thinking about the arts. Such questions will be explored through examination of traditional and contemporary views of the arts. Finally, the course encourages students to imagine and enhance the ways the arts and philosophical reflection upon them can be made engaging components of our daily lives.
Student learning goals
Study of the arts is interdisciplinary—students will begin to see and understand relations among the arts, art making, philosophy, and theories of society and culture. It is hoped that you will discover connections to other courses in the IAS Program at UWB.
Students will gain some ability to describe and interpret various arts as well as how to understand and respond to others' descriptions and interpretations.
Students will become more able to understand and critically evaluate theories about the arts and the significance of the arts in society and culture. This includes imaginatively developing one's own views.
Students will become more able to recognize and to examine taken-for-granted assumptions about the arts and the role of the arts in in culture and society.
Students will become more aware of and understand how the arts function as meaningful components of everyday life, including the involvements of artists in communities and , how the arts can engage and transform everyday lives in communities.
Students will become more able to engage in dialogue with others and groups about the arts, enhancing your abilities as a careful listener and interpreter.
General method of instruction
Large and smaller group discussions of assigned readings and arts. Some in-class presentations by instructor, especially explicating theories and background for arts interpretation. In-class activities will include interpretation of art as well as of views of art from philosophers, anthropologists, etc.
Recommended preparation
While there are no specific prerequisites for the course either in terms of background in the arts or theories about arts, more successful students will come prepared to join in open discussion, to read challenging writing, and to examine their own assumptions. Students with experience in the arts or with interests in the arts are encouraged to further expand their knowledge.
Class assignments and grading
Class assignments will include: short personal response papers; summary and critical responses to readings; examinations; at least one outside event (such as a visit to an off campus art activity or community arts event); a concluding project.
Written work graded on clarity and ability to describe, interpret, and critically respond to assigned writings (including developing one's own view in response to assigned writings). Personal reflections assessed in terms of thoughtfulness of explorations of emotional/cognitive dimensions of experience. Participation graded in terms of careful listening and thoughtfulness (not amount) of responses.
