In this course we will study the Arab World with a deeper insight of identity theory in general and our own identity in particular. Before approaching historical, philosophical, cultural, religious and political texts/movies from and about the Arab World we will briefly analyse our own identities. They are our point of departure on a two-week journey in which we deal with the Arab people and their life.
Arab countries are diverse in many ways and worth to be studied in depth. With an average age of 25 years, Arab youth will play a key role in the decades to come. Images of Arabs however, are often erroneous and based on stereotypes. To deconstruct these we will consult theories of cultural, social and national identity and also apply them to ourselves. rnrnArabs also share many features such as language, religion and certain cultural aspects. Also economically the region is of utmost importance, not only in terms of natural resources. The geo-political location is only one of the reasons why the Arab World has witnessed and is witnessing continuous military assaults from foreign powers.
In many other respects that are usually underrepresented in the general media, historically, scientifically and socially there is a lot to learn from this part of the world. To most readers not a single Arab philosopher, poet or historian is known by name. We will together fill this gap. Furthermore, by inviting both Arabs and non-Arabs for guest lectures to share their experiences and expertise we will jointly arrive at an understanding of the region that is academically grounded, supported by real life observations and determined by modesty towards the vast knowledge we encounter. We embark on an intellectual voyage in the spirit of the following quote: "Learn about yourself and others how you want others to learn about themselves and you."
Period
09-07-2012 - 20-07-2012 (2 weeks)
Target group
Bachelor and master students of all disciplines.
Course aim
An understanding of the region that is academically grounded, supported by real life observations and determined by modesty towards the vast knowledge we encounter.
Credits
4.0 ECTS credits
Course fee
EUR 600: Course + course materials
EUR 700: Course + course materials + social programme
Course leader
Mr. Tijan Ramahi. Several experts on the Arab World, Egypt, Iran (in relation to the Arab World) and Palestine will be invited as guest lecturers. A company visit may be included in the course.rn
Scholarships
Not available
Maastricht University + Maastricht School of Management Student Service Centre
Address: Bonnefantenstraat 2 P.O. Box 616
Postal code: 6211 KL Maastricht
City: Maastricht
Country: Netherlands
Website: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/summerschool
E-mail: summerschool@maastrichtuniversity.nl
Phone: +31433885295
Reflections on the Arab World
