History & Culture   

This course is NOT about any specific instance of Fake News, although some examples may be mentioned. It's about: why people think it's Okay to create; why large groups of people fall for it; how one can protect oneself from it; and how to talk about it with others in a calm dispassionate way. Relative to its creation, ethics, political science, and sociology are discussed. Relative to susceptibility, individual and group psychology are described. Also, since words are its vehicle, linguistics and philology must be included. Finally, talking with others is dominated by emotional intelligence issues. Dr. Usell provides electronic handouts.

Learn more about the beliefs and practice of Islam through readings, lectures, discussions and videos. In conjunction with the course, an optional trip to a local mosque will be offered. This opportunity to broaden perspectives on faith and feelings of Muslims is guided by two scholars, one Christian and one Muslim. Become familiar with the culture and beliefs, exploring beyond headlines, to engage the “heart-lines” of Muslim people.

Jewish civilization historically and in contemporary times. Secular and religious expressions of Jewish culture, concepts, and ideals; sense of human place, purpose, communal and personal life; influence of Jewish thought on other religious and secular cultures; anti-Semitism and other modern challenges will be discussed. Textbooks: Seasons of Our Joy, ISBN: 9780827609303; Way of Man, ISBN: 9780415278294; and Jewish History in 100 Nutshells, ISBN: 9781568218861.

Melissa has grown up in the “Cowboy Capital of the World” and every generation of Ruffner’s have been involved in the creation and continuation of the “World’s Oldest Rodeo" here in Prescott, so of course, her heroes have always been cowboys. This class will cover the early days of ranching, the work of cowboys (shared by Karen Landis who cowboyed with her husband for 32 years), and you’ll also learn how the word “cow-boy” was used in the Revolutionary War. “By the time you attend this year’s rodeo and parade, you will have a whole new appreciation and maybe your heroes will be cowboys, too.”

The American Southwest has long been home to a fascinating variety of Native Peoples, each with their own unique story. This course will focus on the history and culture of the Athabascan-speaking peoples of Arizona and New Mexico, including the Navajo and the several Apache tribes.

The American Southwest has long been home to a fascinating variety of Native Peoples, each with their own unique story. This course will focus on the history and culture of the western Pueblo peoples of northeastern Arizona and western New Mexico, including Hopi, Zuni, Acoma and Laguna.