I am new to this network, but I favor to ask: I need your advice - advice
concerning a cross-cultural sociology course that I am preparing.
The college catalogue has it as American Society in the Contemporary World -
a course exploring "contemporary U.S. society in an international and
comparative context." A course focusing on "social structure and insti-
tutions, cultural values, the forces of change, and the web of relations
among countries." The course, with no prerequisites, is intended for first
and second year university students.
The title and description notwithstanding, I want this course to focus on
North American societies - specifically, on the US and Mexico. Maybe later
I can bring in Canada and the Caribbean lands.
I have some credentials as a Mexicanist (and great regard for the country,
its people, and their struggles). The problem is that I have not yet found
reading materials appropriate for this course - best something that draws
social structural, institutional, and/or cultural comparisons/contrasts
between, i.e., specific to, the US and Mexico.
So, if you know of texts, books of readings, various articles, indeed the
names others offering similar courses, a syllabus or two - whatever, please
pass along your suggestions to:
Michael Collins
UW Center - Fox
P.O. Box 8002
Menasha, WI 54952
Thank you for your time. In the meantime, I'll be reading the comments on
others on this network. [And, be advised that while we, in Wisconsin,
aren't being "propositioned" by our governor, my local congressman, Toby
Roth, has sponsored an official English bill. Sorry to say his appeals play
all too well on the feelings of his constituents.]
- Michael Collins
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