2012-13 Catalog

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Title   Offering Standing Credits Credits When F W S Su Description Preparatory Faculty Days Multiple Standings Start Quarters Open Quarters
Alternatives to Capitalism
Peter Dorman
Signature Required: Spring 
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring There is widespread discontent with the way capitalism is working in the U.S. and globally, but is there an alternative?  Can capitalism be replaced by a fundamentally different economic system, or is it only possible to make reforms within it?  This program examines this question in light of economic theory, historical experience and the results of noncapitalist experiments taking place today.  Its approach is open-minded, and students with a range of backgrounds and perspectives are welcome.  Although this is an all-level program, it is essential that students have prior exposure to economics, since much of the debate draws on economic concepts.  The program will also consider the politics and culture of noncapitalist alternatives.  Major activities will include extensive reading covering the historical roots of utopian thought, theories of noncapitalist economic arrangements, experiences with attempts to create them, proposals for ideas that have not yet been tried, and fiction in which alternatives to capitalism play an important part; we will explore these ideas in seminars, workshops, films, a research project, student governance and field trips to see local economic alternatives first-hand. Peter Dorman Mon Mon Wed Thu Thu Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring
Boom or Bust: Social Struggles of the 1930s
Andrew Buchman, Qi Chen, Paul McMillin and David Shaw
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall During the 1930s, the capitalist world economy experienced a prolonged and severe economic depression. International trade fell by more than 50%. Unemployment in the U.S. rose to 25%. In this program, we'll explore the economic circumstances of the Great Depression, the social movements engendered and empowered in the U.S. during those years, and the music and theatre that those tough times inspired. These studies will shed light on our own era of economic crisis and increasingly radicalized political culture.We intend to look at competing theories of booms and busts, crises and crashes. We’ll review basic concepts of classical economics that proved inadequate to the situation, and look at some new economic ideas (Berle and Means, Keynes, Coase) that the Great Depression helped spawn. We'll look at ecological disasters like the Dust Bowl, and grand technological experiments with vast environmental consequences like the Grand Coulee Dam. These stories offer cautionary lessons to our own times around issues of sustainability.We'll examine political responses of the 1930s, including national initiatives, workers’ movements, Marxist critiques, and the rise of fascist and anti-fascist movements. Readings will include works by contemporary journalists, activists, revolutionaries, and documentarians who produced creative and insightful analyses of their age. We plan to trace the increasing influence of mass media and propaganda , and will investigate songs, films, shows, and photographs. Students will do close listening to pieces of music, analyzing them as one might a poem or painting. The music of Woody Guthrie and the photography of Dorothea Lange will be in the mix. Students should expect to become well-informed about the economic and political developments of the 1930s. They should be prepared to draw conclusions about the causes of economic crisis and the political, social, and aesthetic responses to crisis, and defend those conclusions in vigorous discussions with their classmates. This program will also prepare students for the winter quarter program, . Andrew Buchman Qi Chen Paul McMillin David Shaw Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall
Boom or Bust: The U.S. Economy, 2013 and Beyond
Bill Bruner, Qi Chen and David Shaw
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day W 13Winter Over the past few years, the world economy has gone through a gut-wrenching recession from which it may now--at least at this writing--be recovering. Our objective in this program is to understand the current condition of the economy--with particular emphasis on the U.S. economy--in the context of economic cycles that have been a part of economic history for centuries. We will develop conceptual frameworks for explaining these cycles and apply these frameworks to analysis of current economic conditions. We will be concerned especially with the policy tools that might be used to smooth the ups and downs of the economy. Our studies will include introductions to macroeconomics, economic policy, economic indicators and economic history. No prior study of economics is required, but it won't hurt, either. Students who enroll in this program must be prepared to read about current economic and business conditions on a daily basis in several different publications, both electronic and print-based. This might include the traditional-- or --government publications from such agencies as the Federal Reserve or the Department of Labor and a variety of web-based publications. Students should expect to become well informed about the economy and political developments, and of the implications for economic and financial decisions being made in the sector and by individuals and households. They should be prepared to draw conclusions about economic policies and defend those conclusions in vigorous discussions with their classmates. The final project for the program will be an economic forecast for the U.S. economy for 2013 and beyond, including implications for individuals, households, existing businesses and new ventures (for-profit or not). Bill Bruner Qi Chen David Shaw Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter
Business and Culture Along the Silk Roads
Thuy Vu, Bobbie McIntosh and Hirsh Diamant
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 12 12 Weekend F 12 Fall W 13Winter S 13Spring Good training in business management and cultural competence is an essential requirement for the development of successful and sustainable enterprises. This program will focus on the interconnections between business, economy, and culture, with a specific application to trade, cultural exchange, and community development along the Silk Roads. For centuries, the ancient Silk Roads moved ideas and goods between the great civilizations of Asia, Pacific Rim, the Middle East, and the New World. From the time of Marco Polo and Genghis Khan to Yo Yo Ma, the Silk Roads have connected empires and fostered the development of music, art, religion, and commerce. In this program we will study contemporary and historical Silk Roads to envision sustainable commerce of Silk Roads in the future. We will develop learning, skills, and practical knowledge that are necessary to provide a strong foundation and vision for understanding the business and economic development potential of selected cultures along the Silk Roads. We will examine how developing commerce of Pacific Rim can impact the economic future of Washington State. We will learn about international trade, socially responsible enterprises, and intercultural communication. We will learn about the use of money and alternative business financing models. The program will be foundational for forming business pathways to move toward greater cultural, economic, and environmental sustainability.In fall quarter, we will learn the skills necessary for understanding the historical, cultural, and economic significance of Silk Roads and for creating a sustainable business plan. Part of our study in fall quarter will include learning about community resources, business economics, and social/business enterprises along the Silk Roads. In winter quarter we will learn about intercultural communication, alternative business financing models, leadership, and application of business skills in non-profit and corporate enterprises. In spring quarter some students will have an opportunity to travel in China with faculty member Hirsh Diamant and study business, economy, culture, and education there. (Various credit options will be available for the spring travel.) Students continuing with the program on the Olympia campus will concentrate on intercultural leadership, international trade, marketing, and developing sustainable applications of their business plans.This 12-credit program will include a core of 8 credits plus 4 credits awarded for in-program modules that will focus on either Chinese language, cultural studies, sustainable businesses, or community leadership development. Thuy Vu Bobbie McIntosh Hirsh Diamant Sat Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter Spring
Economics, Principles of
Tomas Mosquera
  Course FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 4 04 Evening W 13Winter Presented in a non-technical and logical manner, this introductory course will introduce you to the essentials of economic theory and policy. We will explore the fundamentals of economic theory and practice and extend these concepts to real-world applications. This course will help you acquire an understanding of micro- and macro-economic terminology, concepts, and principles. Furthermore, this course will help you realize the important role that economics plays in our lives and will help you gain a greater understanding of economic policy as well as how decisions influence the success or failure of a business. Tomas Mosquera Tue Thu Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter
Entrepreneurship and Economic Development
John Filmer
Signature Required: Spring 
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day W 13Winter S 13Spring Organizations, fail or succeed according to their ability to adapt to fluid legal, cultural, political and economic realities. Strong, competent management leads to strong successful organizations. This program will explore the essentials of for-profit and non-profit business development through the study of classical economics, economic development and basic business principles. Critical reasoning will be taught to facilitate an understanding of economics and its application to the business environment. You will be introduced to the tools, skills and concepts you need to develop strategies for navigating your organization in an ever-changing environment.Management is a highly interdisciplinary profession where generalized, connected knowledge plays a critical role. Knowledge of the liberal arts/humanities or of technological advances may be as vital as skill development in finance, law, organizational dynamics or the latest management theory. As an effective leader/manager you must develop the ability to read, comprehend, contextualize and interpret the flow of events impacting your organization. Communication skills, critical reasoning, quantitative analysis and the ability to research, sort out, comprehend and digest voluminous amounts of material separate the far-thinking and effective organizational leader/manager from the pedestrian administrator. Winter quarter will focus on these basic skills in preparation for advanced work including projects and research. Students will engage in discussions with practitioners in businesses and various other private sector and government organizations. Students will be actively involved in research and project work which may provide an opportunity to investigate and design exciting internships for the spring quarter. Class work will include lectures, book seminars, projects and case studies. Texts will include by Thomas Zimmerer by Thomas Sowell, by M. Neil Browne and Stuart Keeley, and by John A. Tracy. Spring quarter will be a continuation of winter quarter enriched with possible topics in leadership, business planning, communication, case studies, financial analysis, marketing, global business, the national economy and spread sheet techniques.  Topics will largely be tailored to the needs of the classs and students may also take some of their credits in internships or special projects.Evergreen's management graduates enjoy a reputation for integrity and for being bold and creative in their approaches to problem solving, mindful of the public interest and attentive to their responsibilities toward the environment and their employees, volunteers, customers, stockholders, stakeholders, and neighbors. Expect to read a lot, study hard and be challenged to think clearly, logically and often. Your competence as a manager is in the balance. business, non-profit management, and economics. John Filmer Mon Wed Fri Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter Spring
Entrepreneurship and Power
Zoe Van Schyndel and Brenda Hood
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter Why do some organizations succeed while others fail? One answer to this question lies in the decisions and strategies organizations select. Others may be found by examining an organization's ability to adapt to fluid legal, cultural, political, environmental, and economic realities. Strong, competent leadership results in strong, successful organizations. This program will explore the essentials of for-profit and non-profit entrepreneurial business development through the study of basic business principles, sources of innovation, systems analysis, leadership decision-making, social responsibility, and ethics.We will explore the multidimensional aspects of “Power” in business entrepreneurship: to create innovative organizations that address the needs of today and tomorrow; to be the drivers of social, economic, and political change; and to utilize resources of the natural world essential to the development and exponential growth of society. We will engage in a critical analysis of historic and contemporary cases to examine the synergies of energy technology and entrepreneurship (whale oil, coal, oil, and alternative energy sources), as well as mini-cases to examine other examples of natural resource utilization and entrepreneurship (such as fisheries and forestry).You will be introduced to the tools, skills and concepts you need to develop strategies for navigating organizations in an ever-changing environment. Business management is a highly interdisciplinary profession, in which  knowledge of the liberal arts and humanities, or of technological advances, may be as vital as skill development in finance, law, organizational dynamics, or the latest management theory. As an effective leader/manager you must develop the ability to read, comprehend, contextualize and interpret the flow of events impacting your organization. Communication skills, critical reasoning, quantitative analysis and the ability to research, sort out, comprehend and digest voluminous amounts of material define far-thinking and effective organizational leaders. Fall quarter will focus on basic business principles, understanding the business lifecycle and entrepreneurship within the larger context of systems dynamics, and on case studies in energy and natural resources. In early October, we begin with a team-building adventure—sailing in the San Juan Islands on the Zodiac. Zodiac trip dates will be October 2-4, 2012 and include one night camping and one night aboard ship.  Winter quarter will continue building on these concepts and incorporate critical discussions around ethics and “good business.” Cases will explore concepts of dependence and change, power and politics through such topics as coal, oil, and other natural resource utilization and exploitation. Outside speakers representing a spectrum of organizations from the for-profit and non-profit arenas will be included throughout both quarters to provide a diversity of perspective and experiences.Class work throughout the academic year will include lectures, book seminars, projects, films, workshops, case studies, guest presentations, group and individual assignments, and field trips. By the end of the program, students will be expected to demonstrate competence in current business practices and concepts in innovation and entrepreneurship, environmental impact, sustainability, and distributive justice as ethical and social concerns.  Expect to read a lot, study hard and be challenged to think clearly, logically and often. business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Zoe Van Schyndel Brenda Hood Tue Thu Fri Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter
Entrepreneurship with a Purpose: Human, Community, and Economic Development for Sustainability
Brenda Hood
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day W 13Winter What does it mean to be a successful entrepreneur? What does authentic success look like to the individual, to the organization, to the larger community, and to the economy? These logical questions arise after realizing traditional small business approaches which attempt to achieve excessive profits often fail socially, ethically and economically. Today's creative entrepreneurs may realize, far too late, they are doing something they really don't want with their lives, and to the world, in pursuit of some idealized vision of independence and wealth. How might we reconsider entrepreneurial success and economic progress in terms of having a purpose and quality of life: meaningful work within an empowering organizational culture that sustains us financially, community well-being, a healthy environment, and supportive, collaborative relationships?This program will build on the skills learned in fall quarter’s Entrepreneurship and Power program. The fall program focused on basic business principles, the process of how to start a business, understanding the business lifecycle, business finances, organizational behavior, marketing, and entrepreneurship within the larger context of systems dynamics. The winter program builds on this foundation to incorporate critical discussions around entrepreneurship with a purpose: social responsibility, economic development, principled leadership, and “good business.” Case analyses will investigate business ethics and strategic management. We will apply these concepts and skills toward building a dream business that identifies and explores key aspects of feasibility analysis, business planning, and strategic planning.The program will be foundational for forming business pathways to move toward greater cultural, economic, and environmental sustainability. Throughout the program we will ask: how might entrepreneurs innovate, challenge and transform their cultures and their environments as well as themselves? One of the goals of this program is to develop a set of competencies that will address this need, in an increasingly challenging economic and business climate, as we also engage in developing a well-rounded liberal arts education. You will be introduced to the tools, skills, and concepts you need to develop strategies for navigating organizations in an ever-changing environment. You will develop critical reading, writing, and thinking skills in the liberal arts, as we promote and implement concepts of social change, life-long learning, and personal and community enrichment. Class work will includes lectures, book seminars, projects, films, workshops, field trips, case studies, guest presentations, and group and individual assignments. By the end of the program, students will be expected to demonstrate competence in current business practices and concepts in innovation and entrepreneurship, economic development, environmental impact, sustainability, leadership decision-making, and distributive justice as ethical and social concerns. Expect to read a lot, study hard, and be challenged to think and communicate clearly, logically, and often. Brenda Hood Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter
Games Marketers Play: Services Marketing
David Shaw
Signature Required: Summer
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 4, 8 04 08 Day Su 13Summer Session I This program will examine the art and science of marketing services, as reflected in the theories, models, and techniques employed in the marketing discipline today.The focus of this program is on marketing as a contemporary, real-world practice, including the analytical tools and techniques used by professionals in the field. The added wrinkle in this iteration of the program will be applying these tools to organizations and industries where the product provided is based more on services provided than on physical goods. While the classic marketing literature takes primarily a goods-based perspective, modern applications and theories are increasingly focused on services, given their increasing importance in the economy nationally and globally.  Our study will include a review of the literature on researching consumers, employees (service providers) and markets, as well as multiple case studies of real-world organizations providing services (for-profit, non-profit).  We will then move on to focus on segmentation, targeting, and differentiation strategies for organizations, with an overview of topics related to product, distribution, communications, and pricing issues.While the program can be taken safely as an introductory course, the readings and assignments will be comparable to a second year marketing course, e.g., marketing management. David Shaw Tue Thu Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Summer Summer
Gateways: Popular Education and U.S. Political Economy
Savvina Chowdhury
Signature Required: Fall  Winter  Spring 
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter S 13Spring This program is part of the Gateways for Incarcerated Youth program. A fundamental principle of Gateways is that every person has talents given to them at birth; it is our job to encourage each other to search out and find our passions and gifts. Our work is guided by ideas of popular education. We recognize and value the knowledge and experience of each participant. The program works to strengthen notions of self and community through cultural awareness and empowerment. In connecting and building with people from other cultures and class backgrounds, each person becomes empowered to share their knowledge, creativity, values and goals.This program offers Evergreen students the opportunity to be peer learners with incarcerated young men in a maximum-security institution. Students will address issues of diversity, equality and critical thinking, along with other issues that are chosen by the young men who are incarcerated. At the same time, the Evergreen students will deepen their understanding of the theory and practice of popular education. Students in this program will have the opportunity to reflect on how they themselves learn as well as how others learn, as they gain experience in the facilitation of discussions and workshops. Students will work on designing, implementing and assessing the workshops. In the process of collectively shaping the Gateways seminar, students will also learn how to organize productive meetings and work through conflict.Each week the Evergreen students will visit the Green Hill Juvenile Correctional Facility in Chehalis, Washington.  Through the workshops we will explore various aspects of political economy in order to understand ourselves and others as an important part of analyzing contemporary society and building egalitarian relationships. In preparation for the workshop, each week the Evergreen students will meet to organize the workshop’s activities. We will also take time each week to reflect on the previous workshop to assess how it worked and draw lessons for the next one. Throughout our work we will read, share and learn about various kinds of relative advantage ("privilege"), while also exploring cultural diversity and continually working to foster a space committed to equality.In fall quarter, we will study some of the root causes of inequality to understand better the relationship between poor and working class people–especially poor and working class people of color–and the prison system. In winter and spring quarters, we will continue to deepen our understanding of political economy and popular education. Building on our experiences, reflections and studies, each quarter students will take increasing responsibility for designing, implementing, and assessing the program, workshops and seminars. This program requires that all participants be ready to fully commit themselves to our common work and show a willingness to help build a community of learners. Students should expect to spend approximately 11 hours per week in class on campus and 5 hours per week off campus (including time at, and travel to and from, the institutions). juvenile justice, education, political economy, community work and social work. Savvina Chowdhury Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter Spring
Geopolitics, Energy, Economics and Stewardship of the Pacific Northwest
Ralph Murphy and Zoe Van Schyndel
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring Ralph Murphy Zoe Van Schyndel Tue Tue Wed Thu Fri Fri Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring
Global Meltdowns: Finance, Energy and Climate Change
Laurance Geri and Peter Dorman
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter In this program we will explore the interconnections between global finance, energy systems, and climate change.  We will seek to understand the causes of the 2008 financial collapse, the complexity of energy systems and their relationship to changes in the climate, and the range of actions that would stabilize the national and global economies and reduce the risks associated with a warmer planet.The program will include an introduction to micro and macro economics, the study of energy systems, and the science of climate change.  We will consider how international organizations influence national and global policies in the financial, energy and environmental spheres. Using these frameworks we will study the linkages between these phenomena and the actions we can take to speed the global energy transition and create a more stable and just international system.Program activities will include lectures, workshops, guest speakers, seminars on books and papers, films and possibly field trips.   Credit may be awarded in micro and macro economics, international political economy, energy policy, and energy and climate change.  Laurance Geri Peter Dorman Mon Wed Thu Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter
Individual Study: Legislative Processes, Regulatory Agencies and Environment
Cheri Lucas-Jennings
Signature Required: Winter  Spring 
  Contract SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day and Weekend W 13Winter S 13Spring Individual studies offers important opportunities for advanced students to create their own course of study and research. Prior to the beginning of the quarter, interested individuals or small groups of students must consult with the faculty sponsor to develop an outline of proposed projects to be described in an Individual Learning Contract. If students wish to gain internship experience they must secure the agreement and signature of a field supervisor prior to the initiation of the internship contract.This faculty wecomes internships and contracts in the areas of environmental health; health policy; public law; cultural studies; ethnic studies; the arts (including acrylic and oil painting, sculpture, or textiles); water policy and hydrolic systems; permaculture, economics of agriculture; toxins and brownfields; community planning, intranational relations.This opportunity is open to those who wish to continue with applied projects that seek to create social change in our community (as a result of work begun in fall 2010 and winter 2011 "Problems to Issues to Policies;" to those begining internship work at the State capitol who seek to expand their experience to public agencies and non-profit institutions; and to those interested in the study of low income populations and legal aid.  American studies, art, communications, community studies, cultural studies, environmental field studies, gender and women's health, history, law and government and public policy leadership Cheri Lucas-Jennings Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter Spring
Individual Study: Political Economy, Economics and Global Challenges
Peter Dorman
Signature Required: Fall 
  Contract SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall Peter Dorman will sponsor independent learning contracts that draw on economics and political economy, particularly in an international context.  Proposals do not have to be restricted to economics-related questions, but should touch on them in some way.  Introductory economics is best learned in a classroom setting, but the faculty is open to contracts in any area of advanced economics, political economy or econometrics. Peter Dorman Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall
Individual Study/Internships: Business, Management, Non-Profits, Seaport & Maritime Studies, International Trade
John Filmer
Signature Required: Spring 
  Contract SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring This is not a course! There is no classroom!Individual Learning Contracts require students to take full responsibility for their learning, including a bibliography, the design of the syllabus, and learning schedule. The faculty sponsor merely acts as an educational manager and not as a tutor. Individual Learning Contracts traditionally offer students an opportunity to do advanced study in areas that are not usually possible through regular programs or courses at Evergreen and in which they already have established skills and/or background. Internships provide a different opportunity to apply prior learning but in this case, with the intent of developing applicable skills and people skills rather than focusing solely on advanced study or research.John welcomes the opportunity to work with students interested in maritime studies including history, geography, sociology, literature and navigation and the technology of sailing vessels. He also can prove of great value to students interested in business and non-profit development, organizational management, project management, international business, financial analysis, international trade, maritime commerce, economics, intermodal transportation and seaport management. John also sponsors business and non-profit internships, legislative internships and internships with state and federal government agencies, port authorities, maritime and merchant marine firms, freight forwarders and other private sector organizations, including banks and financial houses. John Filmer Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring
The Making of Global Capitalism, 1500-1914
Jeanne Hahn
  Program JR–SRJunior - Senior 16 16 Day W 13Winter Working together in a seminar format, students and faculty will establish an historical, theoretical and analytical understanding of the birth of capitalism in the crisis of 16th century European feudalism, its rise and consolidation in the late 18th and 19th centuries, the development of the global political economy, and its first structural crisis accompanied by a major burst of imperial expansion in the late 19th century. We will find this is a topic steeped in controversy. Capitalism has transformed the world materially, socially and ecologically. We will consider the interrelationships among these three categories as capitalism developed and changed through its formative period. Major analytical categories will be imperialism, colonialism, and globalism, the accompanying ecological transformation, and the rise of social classes in support of and resistance to these developments. We will study the rise of liberalism in its historical context, as well as its counterparts, conservatism and socialism. Understanding the trajectory, deep history and logic of historical capitalism will provide students with the insights and tools necessary to assess the current historical moment. The program will require close and careful reading and discussion as well as considered and well-grounded writing. Our work will be conducted at an upper-division level. Jeanne Hahn Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter
Personal Finance and Investing
Glenn Landram
  Course FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 4 04 Evening Su 13Summer Full Personal finance and investing can sometimes be daunting to initiate. Yet long-term investing in equities can yield significant results with relatively low risk. We will examine the benefits of investing and how to initiate a low-cost, long-term investment plan. We will work from the critically acclaimed by Burton G. Malkiel. This class is for those that have some understanding of finance and would like to learn more as well as the novice that would like to take charge of their own lifetime savings. We will also examine typical personal finance issues as compounding, insurance, credit cards, student loans, buy vs lease auto decision and other personal finance areas as identified by students.  Emphasis will be on in-class exchanges with like minded investors. Glenn Landram Tue Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Summer Summer
Political Ecology of Land: Planning, Property Rights and Land Stewardship
Jennifer Gerend and Ralph Murphy
  Program JR–SRJunior - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter This program will provide an interdisciplinary, in-depth focus on how land has been viewed and treated by humans historically and in contemporary times. We will give special attention to the political, economic, social/cultural, environmental and justice contexts of land use. We will also look at land ethics, concepts of land ownership, and efforts to regulate land uses and protect lands that have been defined as valuable by society.To understand the context, role and purposes of land use policy and regulation, the following topics and social science disciplines will be used to evaluate human treatment of land primarily in the United States: history and theory of land use planning; economic and community development; the structure and function of American government and federalism; public policy formation and implementation; contemporary land use planning and growth management; elements of environmental and land use law; economics; fiscal analysis of state and local governments; and selected applications of qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as statistics and GIS. Taken together, these topics will help us examine the diversity of ideas, theories and skills required for developing an in-depth analysis of land issues. Our goal is to have students leave the program with a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of issues surrounding land use planning, restoration, urban redevelopment, stewardship and conservation.The program will include lectures, seminars, guest speakers, films, research methods workshops, field trips in western Washington and individual and group research projects and presentations. Fall quarter will focus on developing an understanding of the political and economic history that brought about the need for land use regulation. This will include understanding the political, legal, theoretical and economic context. Winter quarter will continue these themes into contemporary applications and the professional world of land use planning, such as the Washington Growth Management Act, historic preservation and shoreline management. Students will leave the program with the foundation to prepare them for internships or potential careers in land use policy and management. land use and environmental planning, policy development and fiscal analysis, environmental and natural resource management, and community development. Jennifer Gerend Ralph Murphy Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter
Political Economy and Social Movements: Race, Class, and Gender
Michael Vavrus and Peter Bohmer
Signature Required: Winter 
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter We will examine the nature, development and concrete workings of modern capitalism and the interrelationship of race, class and gender in historical and contemporary contexts. Recurring themes will be the relationship among oppression, exploitation, social movements, reform and fundamental change, and the construction of alternatives to capitalism, nationally and globally. We will examine how social change has occurred in the past, present trends, and alternatives for the future. We will also examine different theoretical frameworks such as liberalism, Marxism, feminism, anarchism and neoclassical economics, and their explanations of the current U.S. and global political economy and key issues such as education, the media and the criminal justice system. Students will learn communication skills related to public debate and social change.In fall, the U.S. experience will be the central focus, whereas winter quarter will have a global focus. We will begin with the colonization of the U.S., and the material and ideological foundations of the U.S. political economy from the 18th century to the present. We will explore specific issues including the slave trade, racial, gender and economic inequality, the labor movement and the western push to "American Empire." We will carefully examine the linkages from the past to the present between the economic core of capitalism, political and social structures, and gender, race and class relations. Resistance will be a central theme. We will study microeconomics principles from a neoclassical and political economy perspective. Within microeconomics, we will study topics such as the structure and failure of markets, work and wages, poverty, and the gender and racial division of labor.In winter, we will examine the interrelationship between the U.S. political economy and the changing global system, and U.S. foreign policy. We will study causes and consequences of the globalization of capital and its effects in our daily lives, international migration, the role of multilateral institutions and the meaning of trade agreements and regional organizations. This program will analyze the response of societies such as Venezuela and Bolivia and social movements such as labor, feminist, anti-war, environmental, indigenous and youth in the U.S. and internationally in opposing the global order. We will look at alternatives to neoliberal capitalism including socialism, participatory economies and community-based economies and strategies for social change. We will study macroeconomics, including causes and solutions to the high rates of unemployment and to economic instability. We will introduce competing theories of international trade and finance and examine their applicability in the global South and North. In winter quarter, as part of the 16 credits, there will be an optional internship for up to four credits in organizations and groups whose activities are closely related to the themes of this program or the opportunity to write a research paper on a relevant political economy topic.Students will engage the material through seminars, lectures, films, workshops, seminar response papers, synthesis papers based on program material and concepts, and take-home economics examinations. political science, economics, education, labor and community organizing, law and international solidarity. Michael Vavrus Peter Bohmer Tue Tue Wed Wed Fri Fri Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter
Popular Uprisings: 1968, 2011 and the Road Foward
Peter Bohmer and Elizabeth Williamson
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring 1968 and 2011 were world historic years. In both cases, uprisings spread within and between countries. In 1968, major resistance to the existing order produced movements for liberation in Vietnam (Tet offensive); France (May, 1968); Czechoslovakia (Soviet invasion, August, 1968); Mexico, (Tlatelolco and Olympics) and the United States--including the rebellions after Martin Luther King's assassination, the Columbia University occupation, the protests against the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago, and the major growth of the women's and Black liberation movements. There were major uprisings in many other countries. New left theory and practice were integral to those movements. 1968 was perhaps the central year of the 1960s--a decade where the status quo was challenged culturally, socially and politically; a period of experimentation where countercultures emerged and revolution was in the air.2011 was another major year of uprisings. Social movements against repressive governments and against social inequality spread from Tunisia to Egypt to Yemen, Syria, Libya, Bahrain--among many others. The nature and goals of the uprisings vary from country to county, but all are connected by an egalitarian and democratic spirit where youth play a major role. Inspired partially by the events in the Middle East, Wisconsin residents and especially public sector workers occupied the State Capital in the spring of 2011, and there were massive demonstrations against the frontal attack on public sector unions, and on education and social programs. These so-called "austerity measures" and the growing resistance to them are occurring all over the United States. There is also occupation of public spaces led by the young and independent of political parties, demanding the end of unemployment and the maintenance of social program in Greece, France, Spain and other countries in Europe.In this program we will examine the political, economic, and cultural contexts of the uprisings in both of these periods--paying attention to local, national and global connections. We will study these uprisings, and the socio-political forces that helped shape them, through cultural and political economic analysis, fiction and non-fiction literature, movies, music, and participant experiences. Particular attention will be paid to developing research skills and writing for a broader audience.In addition to developing a greater awareness of the historical impact of these uprisings, we hope to better understand the philosophy, goals, strategy and tactics of the organizers of these movements. We will conclude by comparing and contrasting 1968 to 2011 in order to develop lessons for the present and future. teaching social studies; organizing; working for an economic or social justice organziation--locally, nationally or globally; graduate school in social sciences or cultural studies. Peter Bohmer Elizabeth Williamson Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring
Public Health and Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa
Tom Womeldorff and Nancy Anderson
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day F 12 Fall W 13Winter For generations, individuals from "richer countries" have travelled to "poorer countries" to help improve local living conditions, not always with positive or even measurable results. How do well-intentioned outsiders know if they are helping or hindering the progress of a community? We will critically assess the effectiveness of outsiders--individuals, organizations and governments--with particular focus on issues of public health and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Is there a constructive role for "richer countries" in promoting and facilitating equitable development in the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa or does the history of colonialism doom any possibility of constructive interaction?We will begin by examining the systematic underdevelopment of Africa by European colonial powers, and analyze the continent's historical and current place in the capitalist world-system. We will develop an understanding of the complexities, paradoxes and contradictions shaping the possibilities for equitable development in post-colonial Sub-Saharan Africa. We will consider the evolution of theories of economic development and public health perspectives on human development. We will explore the forces that have shaped the health and human development of Sub Saharan Africa since World War II. How do we know that models designed to improve human development actually forward the stated goals? Does economic growth now followed by later income redistribution work or must equity be incorporated into economic goals from the outset? How do we measure success? Can governmental aid organizations, acting in the name of the "richer countries", serve the best interests of the "poorer countries"? How can we best work with governments that do not promote equity or the well-being of their populations? We will consider the role of governmental aid, multilateral agencies, and non-governmental organizations. We will consider a range of economic development initiatives from the World Bank to Kiva.org. The role of the World Health Organization, the relevance of the primary health care model, and the potential of the campaigns will be considered in the context of ongoing inequality and continuing indicators of poor health in several parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. We will use a case study format to analyze the variation in equitable economic development and public health among several Sub-Saharan African countries, examining the influence of foreign aid in the achievement of these objectives. Students completing this program will have a foundation in economic development and public health that will help them critically assess community needs, strengths, and deficits. They will have the skills necessary to answer the question "Am I making a difference?" both at home and abroad. Tom Womeldorff Nancy Anderson Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter
Tech Dreams: Entrepreneurial Lessons from Silicon Valley
David Shaw
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring At its simplest, this program will serve as an introduction to innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic management. We will focus on the entrepreneurial lessons learned by technology entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley (and elsewhere) over the past two decades. What Horatio Alger’s “rags to riches” stories were to “the American dream” in the late 19 century, Silicon Valley was to engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs and the popular imagination during the late 20 century (and up to the present). Beyond the myths of successful startup businesses launched from humble origins in someone’s garage, however, lay the ideas that guided the tech entrepreneurs and their startup ventures. This program will examine the history of recent entrepreneurship in Silicon Valley (and other technology centers globally), not by focusing on the biographies of the most successful entrepreneurs in the tech industries, but by examining the contemporary books and ideas that inspired and guided their efforts. The questions we’ll examine are these: What should one do as an entrepreneur? How should one think and plan in starting up a new venture (for-profit, non-profit or social)? Where should one focus their attention, and when? Does staying faithful to the plan, or adapting to a fast-changing environment, matter more? And when should entrepreneurs stay with their budding ventures, sell off their venture, or shut it down to move on to “something else”? For seminar, we will read and discuss five seminal books published over the past 22 years that have guided entrepreneurial startups in the tech industries: Geoffrey A. Moore’s 1991; Clayton M. Christensen’s , 1997; W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne’s , 2005; Steve Blank’s , 2005; and Alex Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur’s , 2010. We’ll read them in chronological order, examine what they said, and try to unpack why they gained wide currency among the tech startups and entrepreneurs of their day. We’ll also discuss why the “next big thing” complemented, superseded, or supplemented the previous school of thought. Readings of additional articles on entrepreneurial theory and practice and viewings of a handful of films and documentaries will complement this learning approach. In addition, there will be a quarter-long, team-based online business simulation that will build skills in dynamic strategy making and financial statement analysis. An individual research project, including a draft marketing plan, business plan, feasibility study or critical book review on entrepreneurship (and/or business and technology) with an end-of quarter presentation will complete the program. David Shaw Mon Wed Fri Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring
Tomorrow Today: Political Economy and Culture of the Future
Anthony Zaragoza
  Course FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 4 04 Day Su 13Summer Session II 2113: Can we see the future in the present? In this class we won't become psychics, but we will use developments, trends, and "futurecasting" to offer informed assessments of life and the economy in 50-100 years. Futuristic movies will allow us to examine concerns about the future as a window into present-day culture. We will converse via Skype with Japanese students to exchange views. Final projects will offer projections of the future with the option of making a short movie. What will the future bring in your life, your community, and your world? No books or special software will be required. Anthony Zaragoza Tue Thu Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Summer Summer
Understanding the Economic Crisis
Alan Nasser
  Course FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 4 04 Evening Su 13Summer Session II The financial crisis is a turning point for American society and world history. It marks the beginning of what economists now call "the new normal". Understanding it can help in making sense of the world and planning for the future. This class helps students to understand where the crisis came from and where it is likely to lead. Clear explanations will be given for terms like securitization, derivatives, credit default swaps, and financial vs. real economy. The implications of the crisis for both private and public sector workers will be examined.  Implications for income and job growth, and for students burdened with debt, will also be studied. No background in economics is required. Alan Nasser Mon Wed Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Summer Summer
Working Artists: The Business of Creativity and Art
Tom Womeldorff and Lisa Sweet
  Program JR–SRJunior - Senior 16 16 Day S 13Spring What does it mean to be a working artist? How does the need to make money influence our artistic expression? Are artistic freedom, authenticity and purity of expression inevitably tarnished once art is produced in anticipation of sale? From the buyer's perspective, what exactly is being bought? Is it the aesthetics of the object or is it the name of the artist being purchased, or even an intimate relationship with the artist herself? How do the artist, the gallery and the buyer determine the appropriate price? What roles do galleries and other intermediaries play in uniting the artist with the connoisseur? These are not new questions. In fact, artists such as Michelangelo depended on patronage; their artistic expression was defined and constrained by those paying them to be artists. Today this process reaches into every corner of the globe; Australian aborigines, for example, have rescaled their art to easily fit in suitcases of their tourist buyers. We will explore these issues in this program, designed for students interested in the intersection of art and business. Our focus will be the economic, cultural and production dynamics involved in making a living as an artist or entrepreneur in the art world. We will critically explore the commercial relationships and market transactions among artists, gallerists, collectors and patrons. This program is a preparatory course on how to make a living as an artist, on marketing strategies, or establishing portfolios and promotional materials. Artists who sustain life-long artistic practice and make a living in the process do so by undertaking daily--often uninspiring--practices. We will similarly engage in daily practice as artists in business, developing skills in observational drawing and personal finance. Our regular rigorous practice will serve both as metaphors for the daily work of artistic production, and as opportunities for improving foundational skills necessary for the business of art.In addition to seminar, lecture, workshops, writing and exams, each week will include twelve hours in drawing and personal finance. Sharpen your pencils, grab your calculators and join us, 8:23 am sharp. Tom Womeldorff Lisa Sweet Tue Wed Thu Fri Junior JR Senior SR Spring Spring