English

This course gives an introduction to the theory of systems of ordinary differential equations. This includes topics such as existence and uniqueness of solutions, linearization and stability theory, phase space techniques, bifurcation theory and Hamiltonian systems. Emphasis is put on using dynamical systems as a modeling tool in different areas of science, technology, medicine, economy. Students perform numerical studies of complex systems.

This course looks in detail at a number of key Renaissance artists including Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Albrecht Dürer, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian. It examines the works of these artists within the context of early modern society, investigating the conditions of artistic patronage, and pursuing the theme of the ‘revival of antiquity’ alongside the changing religious demands placed on artists in the light of the Reformation. It also explores critically a number of themes and questions such as the ‘idea of the Renaissance’, whether there was a Renaissance for women, or if the Renaissance was multi-cultural? Other topics examined include ‘the rise of the artist’, the theory of ‘disegno’, artistic exchanges between Italy and northern Europe, the nature of different artistic centres in Italy (like Bologna, Milan or Venice as well as Florence and Rome), the growth of the genre of portraiture, and the experience of dreaming, melancholy or falling in love as described in the visual arts.

The course Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience presents an overview of the core topics in cognitive and biological psychology. These topics include (human) perception, learning, memory, planning, problem solving, reasoning, language, speech, and action. Both the functional and neuroanatomical foundations of cognitive faculties are addressed. Several models of cognition and theories of brain function that are of relevance to knowledge engineering are outlined. Several skills trainings are given to train understanding in biological functioning of neuronal communication and functioning of neural networks and genetic algorithms.

The area of specialization varies from year to year depending on the particular specialization of the staff available. This course is taught through seminars and workshops. Through the examination of the work of leading practitioners, this course explores in some detail the theoretical frameworks and performative practices associated with Applied Drama and Theatre, including drama-in-education, theatre-in-education, youth and community theatre.

This course provides an international comparative perspective on the analysis of contemporary labor markets. It focuses on applying labor economics to important policy issues in the areas of labor supply and demand, wages, migration, multinational firms, international trade, and automation. The course provides a review of how economists address most recent trends in international labor markets.

This course examines the use of data science tools to summarize, visualize, and analyze data. Sensible workflows and clear interpretations are emphasized.

“Behold, I teach you the superman: He is this lightning, he is this madness!” thus spoke Friedrich Nietzsche. This course defines superheroes as the contemporary incarnation of Nietzsche’s Übermensch that calls for self-becoming and self overcoming. It traces the development of this enduring pop culture artifact, from immortal bodies of classical heroes to fantasies of the perfectible human through technoscience. With reference to cross-cultural expressions of the genre, the course dissects the concept of superheroes: What are they? Where do they come from? How can they help us change the way we think about ourselves, our environment, and the multiverse of possibilities that surrounds us? It discusses how the origins and evolution of these characters are shaped by sociohistorical factors, such as gender and sexuality, race, and society. Topics covered include good and evil, power and identity, and justice and responsibility. Students design their own superheroes and develop new ways of reading superheroes as modern myths about fears, longings, and aspirations.

After introducing the region with special foci on Tibet and Nepal, this course takes a close look at key anthropological issues such as religion, climate change, and development. It uses the empirical data coming out of the Himalayas as a starting point for thinking about perennial issues in anthropology generally.

Focusing on the visual materials of the Silk Roads, this course explores the dynamic interconnections among Eurasian cultures. The course examines art and monuments, such as cave-temples, Buddhist statues, print ephemera, and mural paintings, to examine distinctive and interrelated styles, ideas, and values in various geographic regions. It considers how pilgrims, merchants, diplomats, and their travels mediated between oasis towns and transitional stations along the ancient trade network. Throughout the course, it helps develops skills in looking closely at artworks and speaking and writing about them. Through the lens of the Silk Roads, the course reimagines the interconnectedness among world cultures and enrich our understanding of globalism today.