American Studies Summer Institute
Knowledge and Power: The Impact of "Intelligence" on American Political Life and Culture, Past and Present (AMST 687)
For over two decades, teachers and graduate students in American Studies, political science, history, and related disciplines have explored in depth a topic drawn from American history, politics, culture or social policy through the American Studies Summer Institute, co-sponsored by the University of Massachusetts Boston and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The intensive two-week program, held at the Kennedy Library, includes informative and thought-provoking lectures and discussions led by a distinguished group of scholars and guests.
This year’s program examines how intelligence has been defined, redefined, valued and devalued throughout American history. We will explore the multiple ways intelligence has shaped American political life and culture, and how restrictive definitions of intelligence have been contested by activists, politicians, and artists. The course will emphasize equally the political, social, and cultural dimensions of knowledge in American life.
As in the past, the Institute will draw upon experts from a variety of disciplines and with diverse perspectives. The Institute will be directed by Aaron Lecklider, Assistant Professor of American Studies at UMass Boston, and Nina Tisch, Education Specialist at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
Credit
Participants may earn three graduate credits in American Studies. For those wishing to receive graduate credit, the fee for this grant-supported course is $195. (A non-credit option is available for $125.) Graduate students must complete a major paper. Teachers who wish to receive graduate credit must complete a 10-page research paper, annotated bibliography, and lesson plan. Teachers may receive PDPs upon completion of a lesson plan.
