CSU GE Area D

This course provides students with an overview of the characteristics of the criminal justice system in the United States. An emphasis is placed on examining the structure and functions of the police, courts and corrections. The following additional topics are explored: the origins of criminal law, theories of crime, the adjudication of a criminal case, measurement of crime, the evolution of the principles and approaches utilized by the justice system, the social impact of crime, sentencing policies and related subject areas.

Cultural Anthropology is the study of human society and culture, analyzing both similarities and differences amongst cultural groups. This course will introduce students to important socio-cultural concepts used by cultural anthropologists including material culture, social organization, religion, kinship, ritual and symbolic systems, race, ethnicity, and language amongst others. Students will examine how cultural anthropologists understand the notion of culture in the study of human behavior in different regions of the world. The ethnographic method as a key methodology will be stressed throughout this course.

This course is an introduction to the archaeological record documenting the evolution of human culture from the earliest stone tool makers to the primary civilizations of the Old and New Worlds. Topics include hunter-gatherer adaptations, the invention and spread of agriculture, and the development of civilizations. Archaeological techniques and methods are introduced as the means for understanding these developments.

This is an introductory lecture class on the field and laboratory methods used by archaeologists to understand our past. Topics include the scientific method, archaeological research design, archaeological reconnaissance, excavation, relative and absolute dating techniques, analyses of archaeological remains, and Cultural Resource Management.

This course introduces the student to the place of language in society and how it varies in different cultures. The course explores how language changes in different segments of society, the relationship between dialects and social hierarchy, and language variations between genders. Students will learn to analyze linguistic expressions such as oral story-telling, poetry, and narratives from a cross-cultural perspective. Also students will discuss the role of language in issues related to nationalism.

This course presents a cross-cultural survey of the position of men and women within an anthropological framework. It assesses, in a comparative fashion, the biological basis of sexual differentiation and the cultural interpretation of these differences through "gender roles." Comparative materials from tribal, non-western, non-industrial, and western cultures will be used to illustrate the variety of gender roles and expectations. The course focuses on cultural institutions as fundamental in creating, defining, and reinforcing gender roles. Economics, politics, the arts, ethnicity, race, religion, kinship, world view, language, and other issues which influence choices, opportunities and limitations tied to gender will be examined.

Food nourishes not only our bodies, but also our souls, and plays a critical role in the identity formation of individuals and groups of people in society. This course explores how different cultural systems throughout the world shape the production, distribution and consumption of food. This course utilizes a cross-cultural focus to investigate the social, cultural, and ecological aspects of food, food products, and food resources in a global, historical, and comparative perspective.

This course is a survey of general traditional African subsistence modes, illustrated by specific examples of cultures practicing a particular mode of life. Traditional kinship, political development, economic systems, religions and the arts are studied in the context of culture areas and subsistence modes. The focus of the course is on societies before colonial penetration, but discussions of more recent issues are included when germane. The study of indigenous peoples is placed in the context of broader human socio-cultural behavior and its products, including material culture, social organization, religion, language, and other symbolic systems and discussion of the dynamics of culture, are included in this study.

This course will introduce students to the historical and cultural use of power by peoples and cultures in Latin America. We will investigate the use of power of Latin American peoples and cultures who lived prior to contact with Europeans, in colonial and post-colonial culture in Latin America, as well as in contemporary Latin American society. The investigation of the power of the US/Mexican border and of globalization within Latin America will also be covered in this course. A cross-cultural perspective will be employed drawing from examples in Mexico and Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and from the influence of countries outside of Latin America including the United States, England, France, Portugal, Spain, China, and Japan. Power relations included in the notions of race, class, gender and sexuality, immigration and migration, and indigenism (amongst others), as they are practiced in Latin America, are explored throughout the semester.

The purpose of this course is to explore in a cross-cultural context the nature of religion and the relationships of individuals and societies to supernatural forces and persons. The course will examine general patterns of religious behavior throughout the world, delineate different theories of religion and see how they apply in various cultures. By the end of the course, the student should be able to identify several definitions and theories of religion and to discuss their merits with regard to specific cases.

This course will stress naked-eye astronomy and the historical development of astronomical thought, from the stone age to modern times. Students will learn about celestial motions and how these motions have shaped various cultural views, and how cultural beliefs and values shaped interpretations of the phenomena seen. We will see how eclipses of the sun and moon helped mark important epochs of time, and how solar and lunar motions were used to help create calendars. The class will study the development of astronomy in western European cultures, American cultures (North America, Mesoamerica, and South America), and non-western cultures (Asia, Africa).

This course is a survey of the discipline of communication studies that emphasizes the history, interest areas, major theories, and contemporary and emerging issues in the field. This course will specifically cover public speaking, interpersonal, group, intercultural, mass and other emerging areas in the study of communication.

This class explores the role of agitational and protest communication in the formation, processes, and goals of different historical and contemporary movements. Agitational and protest communication includes the strategies, tactics, and communication utilized by movements to resist or provide different perspectives, including those that have been excluded or silenced. Attention is given to theories, contexts, and strategies related to agitational and protest movements, as well as numerous examples of diverse protest movements in modern and contemporary history.

This course introduces the major theoretical approaches to, applications of, and issues in Communication Studies. Examining and analyzing theories from the various areas of the field, such as interpersonal, group, organizational, rhetorical, intercultural, mass, and health communication, students will apply communication theories and concepts to everyday communication phenomena.

This course introduces the tenets and methods of social science research in general, and communication research in particular. The course provides an overview of both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Particular attention is given to experimental design, survey research, content analysis, and field research. The goal of this course is to prepare students for reading empirical research reports as well as prepare them for upper division research.

Techniques for effective interpersonal communication are studied with emphasis on developing awareness of one's own actions and their impact on relationships. Verbal and nonverbal communication styles are analyzed and practiced in one-to-one and small group situations. Lecture, discussion, and class participation are utilized to demonstrate a variety of skills including listening conflict resolution, and the effective use of language in personal and professional interactions. In addition, exercises in body language, role playing, and self-disclosure and positive/negative thinking help students understand the power of the communication process.

Exploring the role, influence, effects, and significance of gender on our everyday communication interactions, this course critically analyzes issues of gender and communication by examining the theoretical perspectives used to explain gender phenomena, gender socialization, and male and female interactions and stereotypes. With an emphasis on improving communication skills, we will explore the relationship between gender and communication as it pertains to the nature of gender(s), the language of gender, and gender differences in verbal and nonverbal communication.

This course focuses on the identification and analysis of processes and challenges of communication as affected by different cultures, especially as it affects communication among the various cultures found within the United States (e.g. African American, Asian American, Latino/a, Middle Eastern, Native American, European American and Gay/Lesbian cultures) and among the various cultures throughout the world. The course focuses on the principles of communication theory as they apply to the intercultural setting with an emphasis on the effects of differences in beliefs, values, attitudes, socio-political organization, role expectations, language and nonverbal behavior, etc.—all of which are interrelated.

This course explores critical and intercultural theories and research related to Latina/o/x communication patterns, processes, media, and performance in different historical, contemporary, and political contexts. Additionally, the course explores how Latina/o/x communication is influenced by different processes, including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality, religion, spirituality, national origin, immigration status, ability, tribal citizenship, sovereignty, language, and/or age in different Latina/o/x communities. Lastly, the course looks at the historical and contemporary intersections between Latina/o/x communication, cultural identity, and other relevant themes, including technology and media.

This course is an examination of the developing child in a societal context, focusing on the interrelationship of family, school and community and the influence of multiple societal contexts. It explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development, birth through adolescence. Studies of family systems in contemporary society as they impact children and their individual heritage, diverse culture, ability and language will be examined, highlighting at least three major American cultures (Latina/o American, African American, Asian American, Native American, and European American). The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted, showing the importance of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families.

This course introduces students to the supply and demand model, the concept of elasticity, productivity and cost structures. Within the Supply and Demand framework, the class studies the impact of government intervention on markets. The class evaluates alternative market structures in terms of prices, efficiency, and the role of the government.

This course introduces students to measurement of economic aggregates, economic models, and economic policy. Measures of economic aggregates include: GDP, the unemployment rate, the GDP Deflator, and the Consumer Price Index. The Great Depression is used as an introduction to macroeconomic policy. The course covers the tools of fiscal and monetary policy and their impact on aggregate demand, prices, income and interest rates. Additionally, the course introduces students to following models: Classical, Keynesian, Monetarist, and Supply Side with their corresponding policy implications and recommendations.

This course emphasizes the application of economic theory to environmental issues and resource allocation. It evaluates the potential role of government in implementing environmental policy to solve issues related to market failure. It also explores the ecological approach to environmental issues, connecting economic systems with natural ecosystems. ECON 4 is the same course as ENVRN 4. Students may earn credit for one but not both.

This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to the fields of Global Studies and International Political Economy. Students will analyze critically the role of national governments, international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational corporations, in regard to phenomena such as, international markets and production regimes, monetary and trade policy, international and global conflict, and environmental degradation. Contending theoretical and ideological perspectives regarding international systems, processes, and trends will be applied and evaluated.

This course stresses the application of economic theory to important current problems with special emphasis on the role of government and public policy in their resolution. Problems emphasized may include resource management, the environment, government expenditures, public programs, issues of growth and development, and various market irrationalities. This problem-oriented course allows for a detailed examination of significant 21st century domestic and global economic problems and provides students with the opportunity for extensive supervised research.

This course applies economic theory to study women's decisions regarding labor force participation, unpaid household production, and marriage and fertility. Other topics to be considered include: the gender wage gap, women's educational attainment, and economic differences for women across race, socioeconomic status, and marital status. ECON 8 is the same course as WGS 8. Students may earn credit for one but not both.

This course is a chronological study of American economic history by major areas, including agriculture, industrial development, money, banking and transportation. The role of business, labor and government are given a particular emphasis.

This course examines the works of African writers of the essay, the novel and shorter fiction, drama and poetry, with emphasis on the interpersonal, cultural, and political tensions of modern and post-modern Africa as expressed in its literature and history. It explores the universality of this literature while at the same time recognizing its sources in the conflicts of modern history and society.

This course emphasizes the application of economic theory to environmental issues and resource allocation. It evaluates the potential role of government in implementing environmental policy to solve issues related to market failure. It also explores the ecological approach to environmental issues, connecting economic systems with natural ecosystems. ECON 4 is the same course as ENVRN 4. Students may earn credit for one but not both.

This introductory course will use an interdisciplinary approach to provide students with a broad perspective on environmental problems and solutions. Students will be introduced to the strategies used by scientists, economists, political analysts and other writers and researchers to investigate and analyze environmental and urban issues, human/nature relationships, natural and built environments, and environmental citizenship.

This course surveys environmental history of the United States from earliest human migration to the present, focusing on the complex and consequential ways people have perceived, relied on, interacted with, and been impacted by the natural world. Topics include diverse patterns of interaction with land, water, plants, animals, and energy sources, as well as the economic, political, social, cultural, technological and global aspects of these patterns.

This course examines environmental politics. The political, economic, and social origins of environmental change and degradation are examined, as well as democratic, bureaucratic and market-based solutions to environmental problems advocated by environmental movements, interest groups and political parties. Arguments for best public policy responses to a range of environmental problems will be assessed and debated. The course offers a practical problem-solving approach focusing primarily on the relations between a range of contemporary political values and on what it means to take political responsibility for reducing the human impact on the earth.

This course surveys global environmental history from early human evolution to the present, focusing on the complex and consequential ways people have perceived, relied on, interacted with and been impacted by the natural world. Topics include the diverse patterns of interaction with land, water, plants, animals, and energy sources, as well as their economic, political, social, cultural, and technological aspects in the local, regional, and global context.

This course will focus on the theory and application of psychological principles as they relate to the causes of, and potential solutions to, current global environmental problems. Modern ecological issues (such as global climate change, habitat-loss, etc.) have their historical origin in human behavior; this class will focus both on relevant causal behaviors, and on the mental mechanisms that give rise to such behavior. An evolutionary perspective will be employed to identify the pathways by which the clash of a “universal human nature” and the modern environment results in an “evolutionary mismatch.” Evolutionary models such as the “tragedy of the commons” will be elucidated with relevant and real world examples. In addition, the course will explore potential avenues to effectively reshape human kind’s social, technological and economic relationship with its environment. As such, a systems approach will be taken that considers the human as a part of, as well as an influence on, ecosystems. Cutting edge research will be integrated from different domains of psychology (cognitive, social, developmental and evolutionary, etc.) as well as related fields (genetics, behavioral economics, game-theory, anthropology, etc.) to comprehensively study the human-environment interaction.

Ethnic Studies is the critical and interdisciplinary study of race, ethnicity, and indigeneity with a focus on the experiences and perspectives of Native Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, Latina/o/x Americans, and other people of color within and beyond the United States. This course explores key theories, scholarly works, and ideas that have formed the basis of the broad multidisciplinary field of Ethnic Studies. Various perspectives are examined to discover the ways in which race and racism have been, and continue to be, powerful social, cultural and political forces, and their connections to other axes of stratification including gender, class, sexuality and legal status. This course examines the effects of institutional racism, coloniality, marginalization, socio-economic and political discrimination, and ethnocentrism on American ethnic and racial groups.

This introductory-level course provides an interdisciplinary exploration of historical and contemporary Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x political, social, and cultural practices and experiences in the United States. This course examines the foundations and theories of Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x Studies and contemporary approaches to the study of Chicana/o/x/and Latina/o/x communities. Course topics include history, social movements, politics, community, art, spirituality, cultural production, intersectional identity formation, gender, sexuality, class, family, and social justice, and agency and self-affirmation. Moreover, the course critically analyzes race and ethnicity, racialization, equity, ethno-centrism, Eurocentrism, and white supremacy.

This course introduces students to the field of African American and Black studies. As a survey course, it traces the historical and current social conditions and contributions of Black and African-descended people in the U.S. and provides broad and interdisciplinary perspectives examining and exploring major figures, ideas, issues, and methodologies central to understanding the African American experience. Course topics include history, social movements, politics, community, art, spirituality, cultural production, intersectional identity formation, gender, sexuality, class, family, social justice, and agency and self-affirmation. Moreover, the course critically analyzes race and ethnicity, racialization, equity, ethno-centrism, Eurocentrism, and white supremacy. Students will develop critical tools, frameworks, and vocabulary for further study in the field.

This course is a study of humanity and its planetary home of distinctive places, spaces, landscapes, and environments. The course systematically considers geographic patterns, processes, and issues, beginning with the basic questions of Where? and Why There? Specific topics examined include human population change and migration; agriculture and food systems; urban-economic development; cultural and environmental change in an age of globalization, with specific attention paid to language, religion, ethnic identity, and biodiversity; and international geopolitics.

This introductory course will use an interdisciplinary approach to provide students with a broad perspective on environmental problems and solutions. Students will be introduced to the strategies used by scientists, economists, political analysts and other writers and researchers to investigate and analyze environmental and urban issues, human/nature relationships, natural and built environments, and environmental citizenship.

This course introduces students to the multi-disciplinary study of urban society and space. Cities are examined both as complex social-economic groupings of people, and as material landscapes of buildings, pathways, and public and private spaces. Attention is paid to what cities are and have been (the evolving urban experience of the past and present) as well as to ever-changing ideas about what cities should be (urban planning and design for the future). While the overall perspective of the course is global, its primary focus is on the cities of North America and, in particular, the Los Angeles metropolitan area. This emphasis is evident both in the classroom and in field trips or other assignments that ask students to apply classroom ideas to our local urban setting.

This course introduces Global Studies through a survey of the world’s major geographic regions. Students will encounter core concepts related to processes of global connection and change, while also developing basic geographic literacy in the distribution of human and natural features on Earth. Students will examine and discuss significant issues–cultural, social, political-economic, and environmental–impacting humanity today as both problem and possibility. In particular, this course considers the diverse localized impacts of globalization as a continuing story of peoples and places isolated and connected by imperial, colonial, and international systems of the past and present.

This course surveys the physical and human geography of California and the processes shaping its landscapes. Topics include natural features and resources, such as geology, climate, plants and animals, and hydrology. Historical and current trends in human population, migration, and settlement patterns are considered, including a review of the state's major cultural groups. Primary and advanced economic activities are examined within modern rural and urban settings. Emphasis is on the profound connections between these topics, on California's unequaled diversity and the rapid change that is transforming our people and its landscapes.

This course provides a detailed introduction to global media systems around the world, examining the main economic and cultural dimensions of the international media environment. Key theoretical approaches to international and global communication will be examined. Consideration will be given to the key issues, main actors, and significant developments in global media.

This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to the fields of Global Studies and International Political Economy. Students will analyze critically the role of national governments, international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational corporations, in regard to phenomena such as, international markets and production regimes, monetary and trade policy, international and global conflict, and environmental degradation. Contending theoretical and ideological perspectives regarding international systems, processes, and trends will be applied and evaluated.

This introductory course offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the origins, current status, trends and possible solutions of major global issues. Students will examine multiple issues of concern such as international war and conflict, global inequality, food, water, energy, climate change, population growth, migration, and social change. The course will emphasize interdisciplinary inquiry by drawing upon both the holistic body of work in global studies, as well as the approaches of related fields such as anthropology, economics, environmental studies, geography, history, philosophy, political science, psychology, sociology, and women’s studies.

This course introduces Global Studies through a survey of the world’s major geographic regions. Students will encounter core concepts related to processes of global connection and change, while also developing basic geographic literacy in the distribution of human and natural features on Earth. Students will examine and discuss significant issues–cultural, social, political-economic, and environmental–impacting humanity today as both problem and possibility. In particular, this course considers the diverse localized impacts of globalization as a continuing story of peoples and places isolated and connected by imperial, colonial, and international systems of the past and present.

This course surveys the development of Western Civilization from its beginnings in the valleys of the Tigris-Euphrates and Nile Rivers to Europe of the 16th century. It addresses cultures of the Near East, Greece, and Rome; the medieval period; the Renaissance; and the Reformation, introducing the social, economic, political, intellectual, and artistic transformations that shaped what came to be known as the West.

This course surveys the transformations of Western Civilization from the 16th century into the 21st century. It addresses social, economic, political, intellectual, and artistic transformations that relate to the development of nation-states, industrialization, imperialism, and international conflicts and migration.

This course surveys the development of British Civilization from Roman times to the Restoration of 1660. It addresses the significant social, economic, political, intellectual, and artistic transformations that shaped British and Irish history, from Roman occupation through the medieval period and the political and religious upheavals of the English Reformation, Civil Wars, and Restoration.

This course surveys the development of British Civilization from the Restoration of 1660 into the early twenty-first century. It addresses the significant social, economic, political, intellectual, and artistic transformations that shaped British and Irish history, including the development of a constitutional monarchy, the industrial revolution, establishment of a global empire, Irish independence, involvement in world wars, the emergence of Thatcher conservatism, and beyond.

This course surveys the history of Latin America, from its pre-Columbian origins to the end of the colonial period in the early nineteenth century. Using a thematic and chronological approach, it addresses the initial encounters between pre-Columbians, Iberians, and West Africans; the subsequent development of Iberian political, economic, social, and cultural colonialism; and the movements for political change.

This course surveys modern Latin American history from independence to the present. Using a thematic and chronological approach, it addresses post-colonial developments in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, including such topics as the social and cultural challenges of nation-building and economic growth through periods of political conflict to contemporary globalization.

This course surveys ethnic groups in America from pre-contact to the present, including Native Americans, European Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, and Latinos, emphasizing the forces prompting emigration and immigration, their roles in shaping American society and culture, their reception by and adaptation to American society, as well as an examination of contending theoretical models of the immigrant experience in America.

This course surveys the United States from the colonial period through post-Civil War Reconstruction, addressing developments in American culture; ethnic, racial, gender, and class relations; politics; and the economy. It also considers American interaction with other nations, including both foreign policy and the relationship of domestic developments to the larger history of the modern world.

This course surveys the United States from post-Civil War Reconstruction to the present, addressing developments in American culture; ethnic, racial, gender, and class relations; politics; and the economy. It also considers American interaction with other nations, including both foreign policy and the relationship of domestic developments to the larger history of the modern world.

This course addresses political, social, cultural, economic, and international developments of the U.S. from 1945 to the present. Major topics include the emergence of political consensus then polarization, the economics and demographics of suburbanization, the Civil Rights movement; the Cold War, including the Vietnam War, and its aftermath; trends related to environmentalism, immigration, and technology, and responses to 9/11.

This course surveys environmental history of the United States from earliest human migration to the present, focusing on the complex and consequential ways people have perceived, relied on, interacted with, and been impacted by the natural world. Topics include diverse patterns of interaction with land, water, plants, animals, and energy sources, as well as the economic, political, social, cultural, technological and global aspects of these patterns.

This course is a chronological study of American economic history by major areas, including agriculture, industrial development, money, banking and transportation. The role of business, labor and government are given a particular emphasis.

This course surveys African-American history from its beginnings in Africa through slavery, abolition, the Civil Rights movement, and into the present. The course will pay particular attention to the development of internal and external definitions of freedom and equality and to the influences of African Americans on the social, economic, political, and cultural development of the United States.

This course surveys Mexican history from pre-Columbian civilizations to the present. It addresses such major political, economic, social, and cultural developments as the Spanish conquest and colonial era; nineteenth-century struggles for independence; and political and economic transitions of the twentieth- and twenty-first centuries.

This course surveys Californian history from its earliest settlement to the present. It addresses political, economic, social, cultural, and external developments that accompanied the state's transformation from the Native American through the Spanish, Mexican, and American periods.

This course surveys the history of Russia from the 10th Century to the Present. Students will learn about the significant political, social, economic, and cultural transformations that shaped Russian historical development including its embrace of Christianity in the 10th Century, the rise of the Romanov Dynasty and the establishment of Russia as a powerful multi-ethnic state and empire. Moving chronologically, students will learn about the the rise of Soviet-style Communism, the totalitarian state created by Josef Stalin, the USSR's during the Cold War including its engagement with Eurasian, African, and Latin American states, and they will gain a meaningful understanding of Russian history in the global era and thereby its role in contemporary international affairs.

This course surveys the history of the Middle East, from the ancient civilizations of the Tigris-Euphrates river valley to the present. Major topics include the religious, ethnic, social and political differences that developed prior to and since the emergence of Islam; the establishment of new states following the world wars, and the 21st-century engagement with globalizing trends.

This course surveys East Asian history to 1600, tracing the rise of classical Chinese civilization and the subsequent dispersion of this culture to Korea and Japan. Addressing the connections, convergences, and divergences in the histories of China, Japan, and Korea, it examines such topics as the earliest state-formations and the emergence and maturation of market economies and popular cultures prior to the modern era.

This course surveys the development of China, Japan, and Korea from 1600 through their linked yet distinct modern transformations. It addresses such topics as early encounters with imperialism; divergent paths of 20th-century social, political, economic and intellectual change; world war, civil wars, and revolution; and their economic growth and social transformation in recent decades.

This course surveys South Asian history from the Indus Valley civilization to the Mughal Empire, offering an overview of the social, intellectual, cultural, political and economic patterns in the region that encompasses modern India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal. It highlights such major themes and events in the development of South Asian civilization as Aryan influence, the emergence of Hinduism and Buddhism, and the impact of Islam.

This course surveys Southeast Asian history up to the present. It examines topics such as religion and cultural change; women and gender; colonialism, decolonization, and the Cold War; economic and environmental change, within a regional and global context.

This course examines the domestic and global politics of and between European states since 1914, exploring such topics as nationalism, imperialism, totalitarianism, decolonization, migrations, and European integration. The course will analyze these topics in relation to major events of the time period, including the World Wars, formation and collapse of the Soviet Union and its satellite system, creation of the European Union, and disputes and cooperation between European states in the contemporary era of globalization.

This course surveys the Jewish people and their history from biblical times to the present. The focus is on the development of major institutions, ideas, religious and cultural movements as well as the interaction between Jews and those amongst whom they have lived, from ancient Israel through the global diaspora.

This course surveys global environmental history from early human evolution to the present, focusing on the complex and consequential ways people have perceived, relied on, interacted with and been impacted by the natural world. Topics include the diverse patterns of interaction with land, water, plants, animals, and energy sources, as well as their economic, political, social, cultural, and technological aspects in the local, regional, and global context.

This course surveys world history from the rise of humanity to 1500, addressing human impact on the physical environment, the domestication of plants and animals, and the establishment of complex cultures. A thematic and chronological approach is used to examine the major civilizations of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and Europe in terms of their political, social, economic, intellectual, and cultural development and their inter-regional relations.

This course surveys world history from 1500 to the present, addressing major developments that contributed to global change. A thematic and chronological approach will be used to examine the economic, social, intellectual, cultural, and political transformations associated with development of and resistance to colonialism and imperialism, technological and industrial change in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, through the twentieth-century wars and global transitions that shape the contemporary world.

This course surveys the political, economic, social, religious, and intellectual activities of African civilizations from the emergence of humankind to the eve of colonial conquest. It addresses such topics as early human settlements, the establishment of regional and Islamic states, the emergence and development of European imperialism, and African independence movements. It also traces the influence of the African diaspora on the Caribbean area and Brazil.

This course surveys African history from the eve of 1900 to the present, addressing such topics as African resistance to conquest; experiences with colonialism; settler colonialism in southern Africa; the rise of national liberation movements and achievement of independence, and the challenges of post-colonial nation building. It examines contemporary Africa through a review of economic, urban, rural, gender, and environmental concerns; kinship, and religion.

This course surveys Native-American history from earliest settlement to the present, addressing such topics as colonial-era interactions with Europeans, the development of U.S. Indian policy, and the effort to reclaim sovereign rights. Focusing primarily on native peoples of the United States, this course pays particular attention to the development of internal and external definitions of freedom and equality and to the influence of Native Americans on the social, economic, political, and cultural development of America.

This course provides a comparative historical survey of the political, cultural, social, and economic experiences of Latinos/as in the United States, concentrating on major demographic groups. Topics include migration and immigrant settlement, economic integration, and the formation of group identities among and politicization of Chicanos, Central Americans, and Cuban, Puerto Rican, and other Caribbean Americans.

This course surveys the history of the US Southwest from Native-American settlement through the periods of foreign colonization and conquest to contemporary times. Focusing primarily on Mexican Americans in this border region and, more currently, throughout the nation, the course pays particular attention to the development of internal and external definitions of freedom and equality and to the influence of Mexican Americans on the social, economic, political, and cultural development of America.

This course presents an overview of historians’ methods of research, critical analysis, and written argumentation and introduces historiography and historical theory. Students will apply these methods through a variety of written assignments, including a properly-documented academic research paper. This course’s research component will further students’ information competency skills.

This course surveys the history of American women from diverse communities, from the fifteenth century through the modern women’s movement to the present. It addresses such topics as traditional gender roles; their transformation through war, industrialization, reform movements, and cultural modernity; and relationships between women of different races and ethnicities. The course will pay particular attention to the development of internal and external definitions of freedom and equality and to women’s influence on the social, economic, political, and cultural development of the United States.

This course surveys the history of science from its earliest beginnings through the theories of the ancient Greeks to contemporary debates. Examining the role of science, technology, and medicine in the history of various world cultures, it focuses on how knowledge of nature is influenced by specific philosophical, political, religious, and social contexts.

This course surveys Asian American history from western colonialism, to early immigration and settlement, to the present. This course highlights transnational and intergroup relations, paying close attention to Asian American development and influences on the social, cultural, political, and economic meanings of freedom.

This course introduces aspects of communications and the impact of mass media on the individual and society. The survey includes newspapers, magazines, radio, television, cable, motion pictures, online media, advertising, public relations, theories of communication, and mass communication modes, processes and effects.

This course provides a detailed introduction to global media systems around the world, examining the main economic and cultural dimensions of the international media environment. Key theoretical approaches to international and global communication will be examined. Consideration will be given to the key issues, main actors, and significant developments in global media.

This introductory course examines the medium of video games. The course studies how video games have developed historically, culturally, and technically. Issues of narrative, design, interactivity, and spatiality, which inform both the medium as a whole and individual games in particular, are examined. The function of video games as media texts within popular culture is also assessed.

This course is a historical overview of media representations of race, ethnicity, and gender in the United States. Intersectionality of race and ethnicity with gender and other forms of difference are highlighted. Using readings from selected texts and clips from various forms of media, students critically analyze media representations and critical events in the histories and cultures of one or more of the following four historically defined racialized core groups: Native Americans, African Americans, Latina/o Americans, and/or Asian Americans. By actively engaging with anti-racist issues, students help build a diverse, just, and equitable society beyond the classroom.

The evolution of American food culture is examined from a historical, contemporary, economic, political and scientific survey of ethnic groups in America, including Native Americans, European Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, and Latinos. Immigration, enculturation, acculturation, religion, food availability, food preference, food behavior, food preparation, food beliefs and food-related gender roles are considered. These factors are compared and contrasted across the ethnic groups and regions in America. The impact of “Americanization” on ethnic cuisines and impact of ethnic cuisines on the American economy are explored. Current research on the health- and nutrition-related implications of ethnic groups’ food choices/practices is reviewed. Engendering cultural sensitivity and competency is at the core of this course.

An examination of the causes of war and violence in world history and the various organized efforts to maintain peace and end wars. Nonviolent resistance movements will be emphasized.

In this inter-disciplinary course students examine fundamental ideas about politics in the writings of major Western philosophers from the ancient to the contemporary period, and use those ideas to consider and debate current political issues. NOTE: Students may receive credit for either Philosophy 51 or Political Science 51, but not both.

This interdisciplinary course in philosophy and political science examines arguments and discourses developed within contemporary political thought. How those discourses critique and/or are rooted in modern ideologies, such as liberalism and socialism will be considered. The theoretical perspectives presented in the course will be used to critically examine important issues in contemporary politics. Students will situate themselves as citizens and political agents in relation to those issues.

This course surveys and analyzes the principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments. Students will use course concepts to situate themselves as citizens and political agents.

This course surveys the scope and methods of comparative political analysis. It examines democratic, authoritarian, and transitional political systems to illustrate the central theories and ideas in comparative politics. It compares the political structures, processes, and cultures of countries at different levels of economic and social development in several world regions (e.g. Central and Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Central, South and East Asia, and Western and Central Europe).

Course focuses on the nature and study of politics, from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Students explore the methods and approaches used in the field of Political Science to analyze a variety of political concepts and problems, including the nature and distribution of power, justice, citizenship, sustainability, leadership and agency.

This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to the fields of Global Studies and International Political Economy. Students will analyze critically the role of national governments, international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational corporations, in regard to phenomena such as, international markets and production regimes, monetary and trade policy, international and global conflict, and environmental degradation. Contending theoretical and ideological perspectives regarding international systems, processes, and trends will be applied and evaluated.

This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation and issues of war and peace among states in the international system.

This course concentrates on the political and social history of East Asia in the 20th century. The following subjects are studied: major movements of social and political change; revolution; the pattern of political culture and power; the pattern of foreign and domestic policy; and the relationship of East Asia to the Western World.

This course examines global conflict and cooperation since World War II, with special emphasis on The United Nations and related organizations. Arms proliferation and control, regional conflicts, world social and economic cooperation, and governmental and non-governmental efforts to promote peace and security are examined.

A comparative study of the government and politics of the Middle Eastern states. Emphasis will be placed on study of the relationship between political development, political organization and social structure.

The social construction of race and ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation in American society and their relationship to local, state, and national government is covered. Of particular concern are problems of assimilation and integration into the political system, the politics of exclusion, discrimination, voting behavior and pressure group politics, ideology, resistance and political action, the social construction of race and racism, the poor and the culture of poverty, political problems of the aged, the young, women, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people. This course satisfies the SMC requirement for American Cultures.

This course examines environmental politics. The political, economic, and social origins of environmental change and degradation are examined, as well as democratic, bureaucratic and market-based solutions to environmental problems advocated by environmental movements, interest groups and political parties. Arguments for best public policy responses to a range of environmental problems will be assessed and debated. The course offers a practical problem-solving approach focusing primarily on the relations between a range of contemporary political values and on what it means to take political responsibility for reducing the human impact on the earth.

This interdisciplinary course critically explores the politics of gender and sexuality in contemporary societies. The course considers materials from political theory, philosophy, the study of women, the study of masculinity, and queer studies as it examines the role of gender, gender based social movements, and sexual politics in political and social life and in contemporary political affairs.

This course is an introduction to the legal concepts and contemporary legal conflicts in the United States, including the philosophical and historical basis for resolution of conflict. Historical and contemporary conflicts in the areas of civil liberties and civil rights, as well as other current legal conflicts and controversies are addressed. This course satisfies a requirement for the Law Pathway program.

This course is an introduction to public policy. The course covers core topics in American public policy and focuses on institutions, policy actors, and major theoretical models. In addition, the course covers the nature and practice of policy analysis in order to demonstrate how to employ evaluative criteria in substantive policy areas.

This seminar in international politics features analysis and discussion of the international system. Patterns of cooperation and conflict between states, alliance systems, security issues and the international economy are among the topics on which students will write papers. Seminar sessions are characterized by discussion, oral reports and critical analysis of papers, articles and books. Consultation with the instructor is encouraged before enrolling.

In this inter-disciplinary course students examine fundamental ideas about politics in the writings of major Western philosophers from the ancient to the contemporary period, and use those ideas to consider and debate current political issues. NOTE: Students may receive credit for either Philosophy 51 or Political Science 51, but not both.

This interdisciplinary course in philosophy and political science examines arguments and discourses developed within contemporary political thought. How those discourses critique and/or are rooted in modern ideologies, such as liberalism and socialism will be considered. The theoretical perspectives presented in the course will be used to critically examine important issues in contemporary politics. Students will situate themselves as citizens and political agents in relation to those issues.

This course is an introduction to the science and practice of psychology. It provides students with an overview of the core areas of the field and an introduction to the various ways in which psychologists conduct research as well as well-known theories and classic psychological studies. Course content includes biopsychology; states of consciousness; human development; learning and memory; intelligence; social and environmental influence; theories of personality; and psychological disorders.

This course provides an introduction to personality psychology. Topics covered include the utility of personality in predicting behavior, the influences of personality, the major theories of personality development and dynamics, and the application of personality theory to health, psychopathology, and treatment. Assessment of personality will also be discussed. The course will use a lecture, discussion, and demonstration format.

This course provides insight into and preparation for establishing relationships as the basis for a successful and fulfilling individual, marital and family life. Included are values clarification, communication techniques, current views of male and female roles in society, mate selection, sexual involvement and adjustment, family planning, and child rearing. Special emphasis is placed on the need for compromise and adjustment in a marriage and family unit in our rapidly changing society. This course will use lecture, discussion, and experiential formats in exploration of these topics.

This course surveys various psychological research methods with an emphasis on research design, experimental procedures, descriptive methods, instrumentation, as well as collection, analysis, interpretation and reporting of research data. Research design and methodology are examined in a variety of the sub disciplines of psychology. Ethical considerations for human and animal research are explored. Students are introduced to critical thinking and the application of the scientific method to psychological questions. The course contains both lecture and practical experiences via the formulation and completion of original research conducted in small groups. Various descriptive and inferential statistical approaches are explored and utilized to evaluate data.

Community psychology focuses on the impact of society on individual and community functioning. As a prevention science, Community Psychology seeks to understand relationships between environmental conditions and the well-being of community members. Through the application of psychological principles, community psychologists seek to understand the ecological context of human experiences, empower individuals and communities, initiate action research, and implement social change. In this course, students will be introduced to the history, goals, and methods of community psychology and community mental health. Using a community engagement approach to learning, students will learn outside of the classroom through service learning within community based organizations. Students will have the opportunity to explore topics within the classroom and the community such as: family and community violence, oppression, criminal justice, community mental health, and mental health policy.

This course will examine the major developmental milestones for children, both typically and atypically developing, from conception through adolescence in the areas of physical, psychosocial, and cognitive development. Emphasis will be on interactions between maturational and environmental factors within a culturally sensitive framework. While studying developmental theory and investigative research methodologies, students will observe children, evaluate individual differences and analyze characteristics of development at various stages.

This course considers individual human behavior in relation to the social environment. The power of the situation, other individuals, and the social group will be examined. Emphasized topics include: aggression, prejudice and stereotypes, interpersonal attraction, attitudes and attitude change, conformity, group phenomena, gender roles, cultural norms, person perception, and social cognition.

This course provides an introduction to biological, environmental, social, and psychological determinants of psychopathology and behavioral deviation. Historical and current theories of abnormal mental or behavioral functioning, their implications for therapy, and community support systems are discussed. An integrative survey of theory and research in abnormal behavior, and intervention and prevention strategies for psychological disorders are also introduced.

From a psychological perspective, this course traces physical, emotional, social and intellectual development throughout the lifespan from conception through aging and dying. Special attention is paid to the interaction of biological, environmental, and psychological factors on development. The way familial, cultural and socioeconomic influences impact the individual will receive special emphasis. Theories and research regarding physical, cognitive, personality, and social development are used as a foundation to understand lifespan issues, developmental problems, and practical implications at each stage of development.

This study of sexual behavior begins with anatomy and physiology, reproduction and other biological topics. Pre- and post-natal development, gender differentiation and psychosexual development are discussed to provide the background for considering the diversity of adult sexuality. In regularly scheduled small group meetings, the student is given an opportunity to explore and compare his or her own psychological and behavioral dynamics with the different values, beliefs, and practices of other individuals and other cultures.

This course will focus on the theory and application of psychological principles as they relate to the causes of, and potential solutions to, current global environmental problems. Modern ecological issues (such as global climate change, habitat-loss, etc.) have their historical origin in human behavior; this class will focus both on relevant causal behaviors, and on the mental mechanisms that give rise to such behavior. An evolutionary perspective will be employed to identify the pathways by which the clash of a “universal human nature” and the modern environment results in an “evolutionary mismatch.” Evolutionary models such as the “tragedy of the commons” will be elucidated with relevant and real world examples. In addition, the course will explore potential avenues to effectively reshape human kind’s social, technological and economic relationship with its environment. As such, a systems approach will be taken that considers the human as a part of, as well as an influence on, ecosystems. Cutting edge research will be integrated from different domains of psychology (cognitive, social, developmental and evolutionary, etc.) as well as related fields (genetics, behavioral economics, game-theory, anthropology, etc.) to comprehensively study the human-environment interaction.

This course introduces the study of society and human social interaction. Both macro and micro sociological theory are discussed, as well as methods of sociological inquiry, culture, socialization, deviance, social change and social stratification--particularly in the areas of social class, race and ethnicity, and gender. Students are highly encouraged to complete Sociology 1 prior to enrolling in other sociology courses.

By relying heavily on the instructional method of service-learning, this course introduces the study of society and human social interaction. Both macro and micro sociological theory are discussed, as well as methods of sociological inquiry, culture, socialization, deviance, social change, and social stratification--particularly in the areas of social class, race and ethnicity, and gender. Students are highly encouraged to complete Sociology 1 or 1s prior to enrolling in other sociology courses. This course requires students to engage in learning outside the classroom in conjunction with various community-based organizations.

This course involves a sociological analysis of social problems on the local, national, and international level. Critical inquiry and analysis are conducted into issues such as global inequality, environmental destruction, urban deterioration, economic and political power distribution, poverty, racism, sexism, and problems of work, family, education, drugs, and crime. Theoretical perspectives of sociology and current sociological research are explored.

By relying heavily on the instructional method of service-learning, this course involves a sociological analysis of social problems on the local, national, and international level. Critical inquiry and analysis are conducted into issues such as global inequality, environmental destruction, urban deterioration, economic and political power distribution, poverty, racism, sexism, and problems of work, family, education, drugs, and crime. Theoretical perspectives of sociology and current sociological research are explored. This course requires students to engage in learning outside the classroom in conjunction with various community-based organizations.

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and methods of sociological research design and implementation. Students examine the key varieties of evidence--including qualitative and quantitative data, data-gathering and sampling methods, logic of comparison, and causal reasoning. The work of several scholars is evaluated and students create their own research project related to a sociological issue.

This course is an examination of the family as a social institution. Emphasis will be placed on relationships between the family and other social institutions from American and cross-cultural perspectives. Theories of family development in society as well as pertinent research will be studied.

This course involves a sociological examination of the social, cultural, political, and economic conditions experienced by African Americans in the United States. Current and past institutional practices relating to inequality, institutional discrimination, segregation, cultural pluralism, and assimilation are analyzed. Social movements within African American communities as well as intra- and intergroup relations are also considered.

This course introduces students to the characteristics and issues facing the large pan-ethnic Latina/o population in the United States. Attention will be given to the social, cultural, economic and political factors impacting the various Latino groups, as well as how those factors contribute both to differentiate and build coalition with other groups in American society. While the experiences of the diverse Latina/o groups will be examined, particular emphasis is placed on the experiences of Mexican Americans.

This course introduces students to the social conditions and issues facing Asian/Pacific Americans. Using a sociological perspective, the pan-ethnic identity of Asian/Pacific Americans will be critically examined. Attention will be given to the social, cultural, economic, and political factors impacting the various Asian/Pacific groups, as well as how those factors impact both intra- and intergroup relations.

This course addresses the distinction between biological sex and the social construction of gender. Issues of gender inequality in societal institutions and social structures will be the focus of critical analyses of the consequences of the sex/gender system in the United States. Incorporating an understanding of the concept of Intersectionality will be critical to a more inclusive approach to gender and sexuality issues. A global perspective, which examines and compares the place of gender in nations of the North with those of the South, is also emphasized.

This course involves the critical examination of patterns, practices, and relations among racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Particular attention will be given to problems of ongoing discrimination, prejudice, assimilation and cultural pluralism, and power differences between groups. Interconnections between race, ethnicity, social class, gender, and other systems of inequality will be emphasized. Social movements organized within and among racial and ethnic groups that address institutional inequalities in this society will be analyzed.

This course traces the development of Spanish culture from prehistoric times to the present. It explores the geography, history, literature, music, art, and the customs of the major cultural and linguistic regions of Spain. The course will be taught in Spanish except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.

This course introduces students to the development of Latin American culture from pre-Columbian times to the present. It will explore history, literature, art music, geography, archeology, culture, customs and traditions of Spanish America. This course will be taught in Spanish.

This course introduces students to the multi-disciplinary study of urban society and space. Cities are examined both as complex social-economic groupings of people, and as material landscapes of buildings, pathways, and public and private spaces. Attention is paid to what cities are and have been (the evolving urban experience of the past and present) as well as to ever-changing ideas about what cities should be (urban planning and design for the future). While the overall perspective of the course is global, its primary focus is on the cities of North America and, in particular, the Los Angeles metropolitan area. This emphasis is evident both in the classroom and in field trips or other assignments that ask students to apply classroom ideas to our local urban setting.

This course applies economic theory to study women's decisions regarding labor force participation, unpaid household production, and marriage and fertility. Other topics to be considered include: the gender wage gap, women's educational attainment, and economic differences for women across race, socioeconomic status, and marital status. ECON 8 is the same course as WGS 8. Students may earn credit for one but not both.

Introduction to the study of women and men in society, covering comparative issues of social, political, and economic position in the workplace, family, cultural institutions; historical basis of gender based subordination; the female experience; the male experience; relations between women and men; intersections of ethnicity/race, class, sexuality and gender; violence against women; cultural images of women and men; social roles of women and men, LGBTQ identities and movements for social change.

This course introduces and utilizes feminist theories to examine salient issues that women confront around the world and the variant movements of resistance and social change spurred by these issues. The course includes an examination of both historical and contemporary women's activism around the globe, including feminist movements that focus on political, economic, cultural, and environmental change, as well as an assessment of the impact of globalization on women's lives. Particular attention may be given to Third World women, poor women, women of color, immigrant women, incarcerated women, women and war, women with disabilities, and queer people.

This course utilizes the lens of feminist theories to critically analyze how popular culture constructs gender and sexuality and how these constructions become cultural norms and values. Employing feminist theories and feminist analysis, this course examines the relationship between women, gender, sexuality and popular culture. Students will examine historical and contemporary images and roles of women in popular culture (including print, film, television, music, advertising, and consumerism) and situate these images and roles within changing socio-historical, political, and economic contexts. The intersection of gender, race, class, and sexual orientation is examined throughout the course and the relationship between popular culture and feminist movements is emphasized.

This introductory course examines a broad range of contemporary and historical gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer issues in various contexts, such as social, scientific and cultural contexts.