This graduate-level course, which corresponds to the second unit of the series «Contributing to the Advancement of Civilization: Towards a Framework», continues to explore the nature of an evolving conceptual framework that governs our thought and action as we strive to contribute to the building of a materially and spiritually prosperous civilization. Following the study of the first unit, “Justice and the Oneness of Humanity”, “The Big Push” focuses on concepts that enhance our understanding of what is meant by “material civilization.”
Course content
This second unit is structured into five chapters that build on the foundation established in the first unit.
- Chapter 1 revisits the earlier discussion on the nature of an evolving conceptual framework—a framework that guides our thought and action as we strive to contribute to both the material and spiritual advancement of civilization
- Chapters 2 through 5 focus on a series of concepts that, taken together, help clarify what is meant by “material civilization.”
This exploration takes participants through detailed exploration of the evolution of development thought during the second half of the 20th century, as reflected in government policies and the programs of major international agencies. Importantly, however, this is not a course in development economics or policy in the conventional sense. Instead, the goal is to understand how five decades of intense international efforts to “modernize” the so-called developing countries have shaped the dominant ideas of what it means to build civilization.
Participants are then invited to take on a twofold task:
- Identify these prevailing ideas and assumptions, and
- Re-examine and reformulate them so they can be integrated into a broader conceptual framework—one that unites material progress with spiritual and moral principles.
Who is it aimed at?
This course is intended for professionals and graduate students from various fields who wish to deepen their exploration of social development. It is particularly relevant for those who recognize that true progress must embrace both material and spiritual dimensions and who are seeking a framework that reflects this integration.
Required dedication
This course lasts 8 weeks and requires an estimated dedication of 10 to 15 hours per week.
It currently costs USD 150.
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