OUTCOME: Ability to comprehend and apply various concepts, sources of information and perspectives in the analysis and evaluation of the historical context, philosophical and epistemological dimensions, contemporary economic and political conditions of globalization. It will also address networks and skill-based service learning for effective global citizenship.
What is a multidisciplinary approach to global processes?
Over the course of MLO 1 we gained an introspective view into theories of globalization, both at a conceptual and reactionary level. We were able to approach historical examples of globalization (and the pressures put on people by it) with an eye toward the present day changing world structures. Which is to say, we experienced both the theoretical analysis and application of the theories taught, with historical and contemporary examples. This included critical analysis of current events, recent history, and not-so-recent history by way of memoirs and other primary and secondary source historical references. We were able to gain both a deep and broad understanding of theories through classes structured to teach a wide variety of theories, while also focusing on applications of those theories pertinent to the particular class. Through this broad application of theory I was able to respond to prompts with theories as varied as Hannah Arendt's Banality of Evil, neoliberal free trade, and looking at the autonomy we grant religious objects both within and between religions. I learned of an Object Oriented Ontology (as an analysis for religious objects), which was later used in my capstone to look at how we can think about the future of technology and society.
From this we were able to develop for ourselves a multidisciplinary approach to learning about and analyzing global processes as they have happened and as they do happen. We bring in actual historical analysis from GS215, political and historical theory from GS300, theories of interpretation of history from GS316, religions and their role in shaping world views from GS330, economic theory (both mainstream and critical) from GS370, and political theories (from social justice to political organization and oppression) from GS390. Through learning GIS software in SBS371 I additionally gained tools and insights into the literal geographic layout of these politics, economics, religions, technologies, and historical interpretations, and how they shaped and continue to shape the world we live in.