Page 10 of College of the Holy Cross Catalog by College of the Holy Cross

8/ sources to analyze and reconstruct the past and to explore the relevance of the past to the present. Historical studies may focus on the interpretation of broad changes over time as well as particular moments, events or social conditions in their wider historical context. Studying history also involves the study of historians, their writings and their influence on our current understanding of the past. Courses in this area provide students with historical perspective by introducing them to a significant segment of human history and by teaching them to locate and use evidence in evaluating the historical interpretations of others. Students are required to complete one course in Historical Studies. Cross-Cultural Studies Cross-Cultural Studies seek to stimulate critical reflection on the theoretical, methodological, and ethical issues involved in encountering other cultures and to help students to think systematically about the fundamental assumptions underlying cultural differences. In light of this task, courses in this area often explore non-Western structures of social organization, artistic expression, meaning, and belief. Given the complexity of the Western tradition, however, courses that explore deep cultural differences within this tradition can also serve to raise significant issues of cross-cultural analysis. By challenging one to understand different world-views, cross-cultural inquiry provides an opportunity to understand more fully-and perhaps to transcend-onefs own cultural presuppositions. Students are required to complete one course in Cross-Cultural Studies. Language Studies Language Studies involve the study of languages other than onefs own. Such study contributes to an awareness of cultural differences that are shaped by and reflected in language. The study of modern languages allows students to develop the ability to communicate with people of different cultures through speech or writing. The study of classical languages also enhances studentsf general understanding of different cultures through the medium of written texts. In all cases, the study of another language contributes to a greater understanding of onefs own language, and to a fuller appreciation of the role of language and literature in human experience and thought. Students are required to complete two courses in the study of a language other than one in which they possess native speaker fluency. Students continuing the study of a language begun prior to college will pursue their study of that language at a level commensurate with their language skills. Placement into the appropriate level will be determined by the language department or program concerned, based on their evaluation of prior coursework, tests, and consultation with the student. Students choosing to begin the study of a new language at Holy Cross must complete both semesters of an introductory language course. Social Science The Social Sciences investigate human behavior and the structures, institutions, and norms operative in social life. Their main objectives are to identify, through empirical and systematic observations, both universal and particular patterns of human behavior and to explain or interpret human relationships, cultures, and social phenomena. Courses in this area provide a broad and substantial introduction to basic concepts of social scientific inquiry. These courses are designed to offer an opportunity to reflect on the methodological assumptions and theoretical foundations of social science in its various forms, including anthropology, economics, political science, psychology and sociology. Students are required to complete two courses in Social Science. Natural and Mathematical Sciences Natural Science is the systematic investigation of living and nonliving aspects of the physical universe. Its methods of investigation involve the observation, description and classification of broad patterns Academic Program

[close]