Mohawk Valley Community College
Utica and Rome, New York
Course Outline
HU 291 Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities:
The Modern Age
C-3, Cr-3
Course Description:
This course examines the major philosophical positions of the Modern Age in an effort to
understand how these ideas came into being. Topics include Darwinism, Marxism,
Freudian psychology, and Existentialism. The recent past is studied and shown to be the
root of current thought.
Prerequisite: EN102 English 2: Ideas and Values in Literature
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon the successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
 Demonstrate an understanding of the ideas and values of Modern culture and
civilization.
 Identify the interrelatedness of the cultural expressions of these ideas and values.
 Examine the influence and possible relevance of Modern ideas and values on the
students’ lives and cultures.
 Analyze how Modern ideas and values are expressed in the art, literature, philosophy,
and music of the period.
 Analyze the elements, principles, concepts, and procedures of the disciplines included
in the course.
 Investigate an appropriate topic that demonstrates analytical thinking skills and
utilizes research documentation for a major project.
Major Topics:
 Darwinism
 Marxism
 Freudian Psychology
 Existentialism
August 2011