Student-initiated topics, presentations, and discussions

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In this class, we discussed various issues of both local and global concern, categorized into economic, social, and political. This discussion was supplemented by practice using logical argumentation forms (e.g., modus tollens, hypothetical syllogism) and exercises in identifying logical fallacies (e.g., the Slippery Slope, ad hominem attacks, the appeal to "common sense," etc.).

 

Students presented twice. First, groups of four or five gave an overview of a specific issue covered in regular class readings. Then, after choosing a study partner, pairs presented research findings about a student-selected global issue.

 

Sample topics covered previous years:

 

Abenomics: Will it work?

Maternity leave, paternity leave, and "womenomics"

Japan's ticking "grey bomb"

The legalization of gay marriage

Technology and toddlers

Gun culture

Revising Article 9

Fukushima and the case for renewable energy

South China Sea maritime disputes

Facts and fictions about global climate change

Immigration in Japan, Sweden, and the UK

Comfort women and the ongoing apology for WWII

The politics of energy in Europe

Problems with the death penalty

The meaning of "foreigner"

NSA and the "secrets" bill in Japan

TPP and GM foods

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