EUR4620

Contemporary intellectuals and the idea of Europe

(ART)

To be advised

12 points + 3 hours per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisite: A major in European Studies or approval by the Centre for European Studies + Prohibition: EUR3620

Synopsis: The unit investigates the diversity of positions held by contemporary intellectuals with respect to the ideas of Europe and European unity, and the cultural tradition that shaped them. It will briefly look back at the history of the idea of and political moves toward European unity but focus primarily on the intellectual debate after 1945. Themes include intellectual and cultural identity and diversity, the role of Europe in the region and in the world as a force in politics, economics and security.

Assessment: Short essay (2500 words): 35% + Long essay (4500 words): 50% + Class project (equivalent 2000 words): 15% + Fourth-year students will choose from a different set of essay topics than those available to third-year students and will be expected to demonstrate more developed research, analytical and critical skills than their third-year counterparts.