Global Humanitarianism

Catalog description

This course explores humanitarianism as both a global phenomenon and a western model for engaging with the world. It examines the cultural and political conditions that make it possible for some people to be saviors and others to require saving. It focuses on the ways humanitarian interventions are increasingly as much about alleviating poverty and supporting political change, as about responding to crises caused by health epidemics, conflict or war, and environmental disasters. We will pay close attention to the impacts of humanitarian interventions good and bad, while critically exploring how local agendas and conditions shape and respond to these programs.