DOCUMENT by: Bob Hassenger Subject: What We're Doing
Module Overview:
For the next two weeks, we shall be reading the first half of a book whose authors have no doubts that we in the United States have lost a great deal, by what they see as an emphasis on individualism, at the expense of community. They explore some varieties of individualism, with different roots. You should note that there is a Glossaryat the back of the book, that you should find useful in keeping straight some of the terms they use. Sometimes, the same term seems to be be used somewhat differently, so do not hesitate to make use of the Glossary.
Module Learning Objectives:
This module begins an analysis of what the authors see as the decline of community, and some of the causes of this. Habits of the Heart is not a dispassionate description of social change in America. The authors have a case to make. They have no doubts that what they term individualism has been a dominant theme in post-War America, and that this had led to a waning influence of our cultural traditions, in which people need to find their roots. Individuals, for Bellah et al.,can only be fully developed within communities. The objectives of this module are to understand the case they are making, and be prepared to enter into dialogue with them through your classmates in the Discussion Area. You may not agree with everything, or even very much of what, they say. You needn't. The objective is as stated: to understand their case, and then to take isue with some or all of it. In a reasoned way. Don't be hesitant to disagree with the instructor/coordinator or with other members in the class. This is how we learn.
Readings:
The Introduction, then the Appendix, followed by the first six chapters, should be read by October 19, 2003. You should also check out 2-3 of the links, and read/view at least one carefully. Regular participation in the discussions is also expected.
Due Date: October 19, 2003
Assignments:
Assignment Two comes only when we have finished reading Habits of the Heart, the first week in November, 2003.
Due Date: Your contributions to this module's discussions should be completed by October 19, 2003
Discussions:
Start Date: October 9, 2003
End Date: October 19, 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.
