Courses

Instructor: John Coughlin, Global Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies and Law

The question of God(s) pertains to the existence, manifestations, meaning, and attributes of the sacred. Although conceptions about the sacred are inevitably shaped by history and culture, the fundamental question of God(s) has had an enduring presence throughout human experience. This course takes up this perennial human question from the context of some of the world’s major religious traditions including Primal Religion, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. What similarities do these great traditions share, and how does their understanding of the sacred differ? Do they afford an ancient wisdom that remains relevant for our contemporary world? How can religious texts best be interpreted to contribute to human solidarity, harmony, and peace? In what ways does the empirical verification characteristic of an increasingly pervasive scientific and technological worldview impact on the sacred and belief in God(s)? Readings for the course are drawn from a variety of disciplines with a focus on the primary sources of each of the religious traditions.

Instructor: Sophia Kalantzakos, Global Distinguished Professor of Environmental Studies and Public Policy

The Paris Agreement entered into force on November 4, 2016, with an aim to limit global warming to well below 2 °C, preferably to 1.5 °C, compared to pre-industrial levels. But implementation of the Paris Agreement requires economic and social transformation. The decarbonization of the global economy is, thus, no longer in question. Already, around 120 countries have declared a goal to reach net zero emissions by approximately mid-century, while China aims to reach carbon neutrality by 2060.

In this course, we will examine:

1. the need to decode what a net-zero future means and its impacts on critical areas such as food production, water insecurity, and urban living;
2. how major industrial powers are decarbonizing their economies and deploying their new “green” industrial strategies to ensure they are Paris aligned and moving quickly toward a net zero future;
3. the nature of contemporary resource competition;
4. the way policy decisions are influenced by political rhetoric, public opinion, and private interests;
5. the overall economic and political impact of climate change on global political realignments and relations between the developed and the developing world; and
6. questions of social and economic justice, representations, and fairness of the energy transition and decarbonization.
    

Instructor: Angela Migally

As part of SMSP’s leadership development program, this class will study the concept of leadership and explore “what it takes to be a leader.” To this day, leadership remains a central force steering individuals, organizations, and societies toward growth and prosperity. Peter Northouse, the author of our main text defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal.” From the leaders of the first human families to the CEOs of multinational corporations in the 21st century, the concept is perennial and global. Yet, it is also contextual.

Throughout the academic year, we will learn about the different theories and approaches to leadership from core texts, in-class discussions, and guest speakers. We will also perform several self-assessments to learn more about ourselves as people and as leaders. Finally, drawing on our understandings of leadership and self, we will develop and plan for our leadership paths that lay ahead. This course promises not just a learning experience, but an opportunity to evolve as an individual ready to take on the dynamic challenges that leadership roles often present.

Instructor: Erich Dietrich

This course is designed to help students improve their public speaking skills and learn how to confidently present on a variety of topics in a broad range of settings. The course offers intensive feedback and correction on students' spoken English and includes videotaping of formal and informal presentations to provide students a record of their progress. Final presentations will be assessed by a panel of judges.

Instructor: Maleha Arif

"Critical Thinking and Persuasive Writing" complements the program's academic courses with a skill-based approach. The course will provide ample opportunity to practice critical thinking skills through academic writing, Socratic seminars, and class discussions.  Scholars will also master the art of rhetoric, develop self-assessment skills, and participate in collaborative projects and activities that foster speaking skills. By the end of the year, scholars will be confident in their ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively, equipped with skills to excel in both academic and creative endeavors.

Through the course, the scholars will learn:

• To apply critical thinking skills to analyze, evaluate, and construct well-reasoned arguments.
• To create compelling argumentative essays, utilizing rhetorical strategies and credible sources to influence audiences.
• To engage in public speaking and presentations, confidently articulate ideas, and participate in academic conversations.
• To reflect on writing, using self-assessment and feedback to continuously improve their work.