This course aims to introduce Western contemporary thought through readings of contemporary global news. News readings deal with a variety of topics, including international politics, ethnic/cultural/religious conflicts, East Asian and Greater China relations, overseas Chinese communities, human rights concerns, gender equality, issues of low birth rate, eco-consciousness, the digital age, education reform, cross-cultural exchange and communication, and China and the world. Through these news topics, discussions of Western contemporary thought will be conducted in an interdisciplinary manner across fields of literature, history, philosophy, religion, sociology, political sciences, and international relations. The bulk part of course materials will consist of English new reporting and academic sources, while in-class discussions may be conducted in full English or bilingual style depending upon students' English proficiency level.
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