This course covers China’s transition from Mao’s government to the current society, introducing major events, issues, ideologies, trends and other factors that have shaped today’s China. We start with the discussion on Deng Xiaoping’s reform, especially the opening of China in the 1980s to foreign investment. We will then talk about the electrification of China using different energies and the environmental consequences. Lastly, we will explore the development of urbanization and how modern technology has reshaped governance and people’s life. We will also focus on the interaction of China with the rest of the world—culturally, commercially and environmentally.

Recommended Reading (Optional): China in the 21st Century : What Everyone Needs to Know,  Jeffrey N. Wasserstrom

Registration deadline: Jan. 21