AMST 390 Junior Seminar

The 1960s

A close examination of the significant social movements of the 1960's and their ongoing relevance in the 21st century. 

American Experiments in Communal Living

This interdisciplinary seminar explores American visions of utopia in fact and in fiction. Students will study the proliferation of American "utopian" societies, both religious and secular, from 1780 up to the 1930's, before moving to an examination of more contemporary intentional communities, including dystopian separatists and counter-culture communes. Readings include: statements by charismatic founders, personal accounts of members, historical analyses, and utopian novels.