166-420 Multiple Modernities

Completion of an undergraduate major in sociology, political science, or related fields with prior permission of the subject coordinator.

This fourth-year seminar evaluates modernity in terms of an emerging paradigm known as "multiple modernities". The conventional paradigm of modernity tends to equate modernization to Westernization with a consequential convergence of socio-economic development and cultures among industrial societies. While this 'convergence' argument has been challenged by the later arguments regarding 'clash of civilizations' or 'alternative modernity', i.e., the existence of modernities other than the Western modernity, all of them seemly still assume that the Western modernity is the dominant or 'mainstream' form of modernity, and non-Western societies may converge, clash or deviate from this mainstream modernity under modernization and globalization. The multiple modernities paradigm uses comparative civilizational analysis to identify varieties of modernities (even within the 'Western' modernity) and different elements, modes and pathways to becoming modern that are grounded in specific civilizations and long standing historical experiences.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills, through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research and of our place as researchers.

A 1000 word research proposal 30% (due in the first half of the semester) and a 4000 word research paper 70% (due at the end of the semester). The following hurdle requirements also apply: attending at least ten (out of twelve) seminars; one oral presentation and leading discussion in one seminar; one oral presentation of the main argument and insights developed from student's empirical research project.

A subject reader will be available.