How do we perceive a nation? What factors, images and political preconceptions influence our view of a foreign nation and our own? How do personal encounters through, e.g., study abroad programs and popular culture affect those views? How do governments employ public diplomacy tools to shape foreign policy and how effective are they in the 21st century? This course will reflect upon the image of the U.S. in the past and today, at home and abroad. It will explore how the U.S. "invented" itself as a new nation in the "new world" and has been exporting this image. Furthermore, we will discuss past and current public diplomacy strategies and draw upon practical examples and projects in which the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy is engaged. We will visit cultural institutions and engage in discussions with practitioners and guest speakers. Students will develop presentations analyzing iconic American images, cultural products or policy decisions which shaped their own view of the U.S. The most creative contributions will be reviewed for publication on the American Studies Blog (AS Blog). Contact and registration: Dr. Martina Kohl (KohlM@state.gov) |
