Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 Academic Catalogue 
    
2017-2018 Academic Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOGUE]

ENG 105- 1 - Topic: Can We Be Kind to Strangers? (FYS) (1)

Can we be kind to Strangers? This deceptively simple question implies an equally simple answer: Yes, of course we can–and we should. Religious texts, folklore, and philosophy from around the world and from different time periods all encourage us to show kindness to strangers. But we seldom need stories that exhort us to do what we are already doing; thus the stories also remind and encourage us to be kind to strangers, even when we might rather pass by.Thus the question–can we be kind to strangers–gives rise not to a simple answer but to challenging secondary questions. First, Is it in fact possible to be kind to strangers? Is there a biological basis for helping others? Is kindness to strangers altruistic or self-interested reciprocity? Next, in today’s global, internet-connected world, what do we mean by stranger? Finally, should we be kind to strangers? what are the consequences and implications for the recipient and for the giver? The course will begin with a foundation in the religious and philosophical foundation for kindness to strangers and will then be organized around different responses: religious, scientific, and social; individual, societal, and global. Students will be expected to enroll in an online learning community and will receive ¼ additional adjunct course credit for their participation during the fall semester. REED
(FYS)