This course will introduce students to the cultural, political and economic challenges that Europe faces today. We will explore aspects of history, politics and social life, in order to grasp the exciting dynamics of this continent, its integration path, and the challenges it faces in the 21st century. Relying on the expertise of University of Washington faculty from several disciplines, the course encourages further specialization in European Studies.

Special emphasis will be placed on the politics of European integration. We will ask: How does the EU work? Is the EU a model for multilevel governance beyond state borders? How does Europe handle migration? Is there a European identity?

You can bolster your participation grade with extra-credit by attending course related lectures. Signing up on an attendance sheet for events that I will announce in class will result in a 0.1 increase in your participation grade.