ASC 200 - The View from Australia

Credits: 4

The emphasis of this unit is on current issues and world developments that affect Australia, as interpreted from an Australian perspective. Through examination of Australians’ reactions to and handling of these matters, students should develop a basic understanding of the Australian culture and worldview and should be able to articulate, appreciate and critique the orienting values of Australian society. Students will also compare, contrast and critique their own cultural value structures through reflection exercises and begin to distinguish cultural virtues from Christian truth. Themes for the unit include: the settlement of Australia and the influence of landscape and environment on national identity; Australian government; Australian ideological trends, religion, immigration, consumer behavior and foreign policy. This unit includes a 35-hour service placement.