GS 104 A-Z - (IS) Special Topics in Global StudiesSemester Hours: 1-3
Periodically
This interdisciplinary course provides a study of a particular subject or problem in global studies, with the specific topic for the course varying from semester to semester. Possible course topics include the political economy of global consumer culture, the “McDonaldization” debates, the importance of place in the global economy, globalization and the survival of indigenous languages, globalization and the feminization of manufacturing production, and the political geography of the global economy. Students should consult with the particular instructor each time the course is offered to determine if prior preparation for the topic to be covered is recommended. Such consultation may take place prior to registration or on the first day of class.
Current Special Topics
GS 104P - Women, Globalization, and Peace
This course examines some of the destructive impacts on women resulting from an increasingly globalized economic and political world. It also explores the peace movements organized by women to address these challenges in diverse locations around the world. It will focus on geographically diverse examples from countries such as Liberia, India, Argentina, and others, showing what can be learned from their similarities and differences. Comparing global situations and strategies will make it possible to extract insights about pathways to change.
GS 104W - (IS) Cinema of the Global Financial Crisis
The course uses recent cinema, together with course readings, to show how the global financial crisis of 2008 affected different aspects of life in the US, from individual struggles to broader economic policies and social movements. We situate the crisis within the development of global capitalism and the move away from industrial production to the growth of financial services. We examine how deregulation enabled risky speculative investments that led to a crisis that shook the foundations of global capitalism. We are still living with the aftershocks that have led to a reevaluation of the merits of globalization and fueled the rise of new political parties, movements and popularist politicians.
Cross-listed as: GEOG 104W
GS 104Y - (CC, IS) Drug Plants and Globalization
Plants like tea, coffee, opium poppy, tobacco, cannabis, and coca contain mind-altering substances. These plants originated outside of Europe and desire for them and the cultural practices associated with them have underwritten colonialism and wars. This course explores how these plants have mediated the relationship between different parts of the world while reshaping human subjectivities.
Cross-listed as: GEOG 104Y , FST 005E
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
The course may be repeated for credit when topics vary.
View Course Offering(s):
Fall 2025
January 2026
Spring 2026
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