DOCUMENT by: Bob Hassenger Subject: What We're Doing
Module Overview:
Bellah et al. argued that the individual can only be fully developed in community. Barber is going to make the case that even communities are too limited, that the forces of globalization ("McWorld") and tribalism ("Jihad") make for built-in tensions within the system we live in, and that these tensions must be resolved if justice and fairness--the communal virtues that the authors of Habits of the Heart seek for--are to prevail. It is important to recognize that Jihad vs. McWorld was written ten years after Habits of the Heart. The new "Introduction" was written after 9/11/01. And, it is also important to keep in mind that Jihad refers not only to Islam, but to
True Believers everywhere; McWorld refers not just to capitalism, American-style, but to "savage capitalism" and the aggressive modernization that can be found all over the globe.
Module Learning Objectives:
To understand why the author thinks that there are inherent contradictions in what might be termed "post-industrial" society [Bell] , that must be resolved before we can live with the twin threats of globalization and tribalism. Students working on shapening their critical thinking skills will be able to identify some of the author's assumptions, and critically examine his arguments, including his use of evidence.
Covering Barber will be an exercise in reading selectively, by which I mean paying more attention to some parts than others. The basic argument is laid out in the two introductions. Some chapters will place more emphasis on economic, others on pop cultural, influnces. Among others. Don't read only what entertains you. But, as you proceed with your educations, you gain an increasing awareness that you don't have to read every word of every book, or newspaper article, or watch every PBS special. etc. There is a lot of material in the world. Each of us can only read, view, experience so much. Learn how to be selective. If you have time, read Adler's How to Read a Book(Shared References).
Readings:
Both original and 2001 "Introductions" and Part I of Barber (to p. 151).
Due Date: November 23, 2003
Assignments:
Due Date: Ongoing participation in Discussion Area
Discussions:
Start Date: November 10, 2003
End Date: November 23, 2003
If you have any questions about the assignments or activities for this module, please click on the ASK A QUESTION link below. Now go to the next document to begin this module.
