Our Historical Present: A Reflective-Critical Exercise
As a follow-up to our group discussion of the salient characteristics of
our historical present, write a 2-page interpretation of the
contemporary spirit of the age (Zeitgeist). Draw upon the input and
insights of our group discussion, as well as your own educational and
experiential background, to interpret the pervasive patterns, syndromes,
trends, or motifs exhibited in several distinguishable cultural domains.
Example: Some have diagnosed recent American culture as narcissistic
(see comic below). This psychological state of egocentric self-absorption is
allegedly exhibited in several social and cultural spheres of activity. You
need not imitate this precise type of cultural criticism, but you should
advance a diagnosis (positive, negative, or a combination of both) of our
contemporary Zeitgeist based upon the prominent features formulated
in our discussion and/or your own interpretation. Clearly, there is
considerable latitude in interpretive perspectives, specific phenomena
covered, and critical stances. Generally, paint with a broad brush
(comprehensive generality) and attempt to expose the roots of our current
historical context (radicality). |
