Japan

This course introduces the history of international relations, with an emphasis on the ways in which the Great Powers came to conceive, shape, and dominate the current ‘international system’. Although it follows a broad chronological trajectory, the course goes beyond traditional narratives and explanations of diplomatic relations by considering what French historians have come to refer to as ‘les forces profondes’ (or ‘deeper factors’) affecting international relations (IR), including economic, demographic, geopolitical and cultural factors that shaped the identity and foreign policies of nation-states. An important part of this process of identity formation--and of this course--revolves around the question of how national identities shaped (and were in turn shaped by) the relations of European states both with each other and with non-Europeans, especially Africa, East Asia, and the Pacific.  A central theme of this course is the idea that the Great Powers not only shape the ‘international system’ but are also shaped by it-- by their experiences of colonization. The course also addresses the critical assessment of historiographic sources (and of the question 'what is history'?); the use of theoretical IR tools to make sense of key international events, and the appraisal of the multiple ways in which variables such as actors, structures and processes contributed to shape the current ‘international system.’

To communicate well with others, especially in cross-cultural settings, it is crucial to have a good vocabulary and grammatical knowledge of the language used, but this is not enough. We still misunderstand each other unless we correctly understand what they mean through their speech, which is sometimes not so easy. This course explores Japanese everyday interaction from various socio-cultural aspects that may affect speakers' ways of interacting with others. By analyzing it in detail, comparing it to practices in other languages, and sharing expressions and opinions with classmates, insight into how people select their words and expressions and thereby perform social actions is provided. The course examines socio-cultural phenomena of Japanese communication from a wider perspective, while observing and analyzing language use and its possible impacts on others. 

After surveying the basic tenets and history of Buddhism in India, this course discusses various aspects of Buddhist transmission from India via Central Asia (Silk Road) to East Asia. The course emphasizes practical aspects of Buddhism, including meditation, monastic life, and the production of Buddhist art. The course also explores doctrinal and devotional aspects of Buddhism. Employing an interdisciplinary approach, the course analzyes texts, art and archaeological remains, focusing on Buddhist caves as the place for practice. 

This course examines the social aspects of new and old communication technologies. Communication technologies have been an essential part of our everyday lives. We constantly connect to older communication technologies, such as radio, television, and newspapers, and newer communication technologies, including the internet and mobile phones, to fulfill our daily goals. This course critically examines: 1) How communication technologies are introduced to society and how their use is shaped by various social factors, and 2) How communication technologies influence everyday lives of individuals, organizations, and society.