Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The subject explores the existence of a contemporary global condition of modernity in its constitutive pluralism born of different forms of cultural interaction with Western-European civilization, including colonization. It seeks to give students knowledge and understanding of the phenomenon of modernity and of its relationship to culture and civilization. This subject provides an introduction to central issues of social and cultural modernization from a historical and theoretical perspective. It examines the conceptual categories associated with the original Western European experience to question and assess their relevance to different experiences in other parts of the globe.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students should be familiar with, and have an understanding of significant features of modernity from its inception in Western Europe through to its emergence as shared experience across the globe. They should be familiar with the research tradition of historical sociology, modernization and civilizational theories, and be able to apply relevant terms and concepts. They should be able to discuss and review research literature. They should be able to conduct independent research, to present their results orally as well as in written exposition (including planning, arguing on the basis of evidence, and documenting), engage in team work and in critical academic discussion of information and argument.

Assessment

Written work: 100% (9000 words)

Contact hours

12 hours per week of lectures and tutorials