PAF G 603, 604, 605 - American Culture and Public Policy
MSPA Program
UMass Boston

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This course is divided into three weekend units, each of which counts for one credit. The goal of the course is to examine the relationship between American culture and the public interest by focusing on the cultural changes taking place in American society and the ways in which these changes are reflected in social policy.

PAF G 603     Foundations of American Culture
Fall I - 1 credit
This weekend focuses on the early roots of American culture, with emphasis on the role and meaning of community to the early Puritains.  Consideration is also given to the function and legacy of slavery in American society, with special emphasis on the enduring images of race in modern culture.

PAF G 604     A Changing American Culture
Spring I - 1 credit
This unit explores the significant changes that took place in American society during the early part of the twentieth century.  Readings concern the growing tension between individualism and community in a highly industrialized society.

PAF G 605     The Public Interest
Fall II - 1 credit
This unit explores the continuing changes in the fundamental values of American life, with special emphasis on the changing meaning and impact of individualism on the institutional structures of society.  Major concern is directed to the challenge of individualism in establishing a viable public interest in a changing American culture.