Living Arts

Have you ever ever wondered how there came to be so many different ways of life throughout the world? What part mysticism and metaphysics plays in the creation of religions? How we have come to be so very different, yet all the same species? In World Cultures, we will explore belief systems, religions, conflicts and peoples a dig a little deeper into how our world works. We explore some Eastern philosophies to be able to identify root causes of beliefs and conflicts. We will conclude with aborigine culture in Australia. Through this research and project based class, you will explore new topics and create paths to new understandings of how our world works with all of the diversity in it.

This course may be repeated for credit.

This is a one-semester course that provides an in-depth look at differences in society and how they develop. What are stereotypes and how are we driven by them? What makes hate groups do what they do and what fuels the formation of cults and extremists? What are your morals, values and ethics? Learn the tools of how we can effectively mediate conflicts in our own lives and in our society. The course targets these topics, gender issues, sexuality and gender spectrum, and current events driven by student interest. This is a discussion and project-based class.

In this class we learn how to become an activist and mobilize for change. Small groups, and indeed, even just one person can help to change the world. In this course you will learn how to organize, fund, and implement the changes you want. We will start school-wide and branch out into the community with an outreach philosophy, understanding that through education, dedication, and living by example, we can make great things happen. Mass movements start when enough consciousness is raised to change the actual paradigm of how we live, and in what context.

The honors designation for this course constitutes your active engagement and implementation in projects in our school and community.

This is a half-year course and may be repeated.