Biography

Gabriele Simoncini received a Ph.D. in History/Political Science from COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, New York in 1991 with Professor Joseph Rothschild, preceded by the Laurea Degree summa cum laude in Philosophy from the UNIVERSITY OF PISA.  He completed his post-doctoral specialization at the Hoover Institution on War, Revolution and Peace, STANFORD UNIVERSITY, California.


In the past, he has been a researcher for a year at the FREIE UNIVERSITÄT Berlin, and for four years at the UNIVERSITY OF WARSAW.  After receiving his education in the classics, philosophy and languages, he studied and worked extensively in Eastern and Western Europe, doing research in archives and institutions of several countries including the Vatican, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, France, Poland, and Russia.  He acquired a knowledge of several Eastern and Western European languages, which he uses for his research. 


The awards he received include the Postdoctoral Research Fellowship from the Hoover Institution, the President’s Fellowship from Columbia University for four years, and Research Fellowships from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for four years.  While at Columbia University he served as Coordinator for the Center for International Scholarly Exchange.


Professor Simoncini conducts research in Contemporary Eastern European History and Politics. His past interests have included political ideology, Communism, Poland, and Eastern Europe.  Currently his research and editing activities address globalization, and global education.


His publications include: Ethnopolitics in PolandThe Communist Party of Poland;  and articles on ideology and ethnopolitics.  Reviews of his publications, defined as pioneering, appeared in American and European journals including the Polish ReviewNationalities Papers, American Reference Book Annual, and Przegląd Historyczny


From 1991 to 1999, he was coordinating editor of the "Special Topic Issues Series" of the journal "Nationalities Papers", published by the Association for the Study of Nationalities in New York.  He served as member of the editorial board of "South East European Monitor", published in Vienna.  He is currently member of the editorial board of scholarly journals including "MIND Journal", and "POLONIA Journal", published in Poland, and "Директорpublished in Ukraine.  He is member of the Scientific Committe of "European Humanities Studies: State and Society" published in Kiev.


In the U.S. he taught at Columbia University, Barnard College, New York University, St. John’s University, Pace University, and the City University of New York.  His teaching experience includes graduate and undergraduate courses in history and politics on Eastern and Western Europe, Ethnopolitics, Integration, and Western Civilization.


Professor Simoncini participates in academic and professional activities and presents papers at international conferences and institutions.  He is member of several associations including: Italian Association of Consulting Companies for Research, Innovation and Development, American Political Science Association, American Association for the Advancement of Slavic Studies, Polish Studies Association, Italian Association for Ukrainian Studies, Italian Association of Slavists.  Recently he published articles on global and private higher education. 


He lives in Tuscany since 2000.  His consulting activities cover the fields of international education and exchange, institutional and corporate optimization and fund raising.  He has consulted for Mosaic Press in Vienna and SMF International Consulting in Milan.  In U.S.A. he consulted for public institutions and private business including the Metropolitan Museum of Arts and Bankers Trust  in New York.  Currently he operates with GENF International Consulting (www.genf.it) in the fields of knowledge management, internationalization, global education, delocalization, and brand management.  He consults for universities, public institutions, foundations, banks, and private business in Italy, U.S.A., Poland, and Eastern Europe.


In professional areas has taught and teaches courses in management at executive training schools in Italy, including Telecon Learning Services Rome, and Istituto Formazione Operatori Aziendali Florence.


Professor Simoncini has taught courses in political science, international affairs, globalization, and security, at universities in Italy including University of RomeScuola Superiore S.Anna of Advanced Studies Pisa, CEA/University of New Haven Rome and Florence, N.A.T.O. Defense College Rome, Military Academy Scuola Ufficiali Carabinieri Rome.  In Europe he has taught and consulted for private universities including Lazarski University Warsaw, KAAFM University Cracow, WSEH University Bielsko Biala, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University ISUM Ohrid, North Macedonia, EEIP Intitute Kiev.  He teaches political science and globalization at Richmond University London-Rome, and John Cabot University Rome.



Academic courses for credits

Current Courses

Auschwitz - Politics of Genocide
The European Union
Introduction to Political Science
Terrorism and Counterterrorism
Globalization: a European Perspective
Western European Politics
Italian Politics and Society
The Modern World Since 1550
History of the Italian Mafia
Introduction to Political Theory
Comparative Politics
Nationalism, Ethnicity, and Integration in Europe
Comparative Religions in Global Context
The Jewish Experience in Rome
Living Italy Florence

Courses

Eastern European Politics and Societies
Modern Political Theory
International Affairs
The Politics of Ethnicity and Identity
Modern Europe - The Age of Nationalism
Human Rights Universal Principles in World Politics
Italian Society from Fascism to Present
Global Human Rights Instruments
International Affairs since 1945
History of the Soviet Union
The Politics of Genocide
Modern Europe - the Age of Imperialism
Modern Europe - Europe since 1945
Social History of the Mafia
Political Change in Italian History
Italy from the Congress of Vienna to WWI
Language, Identity, and Integration in Italy
History of Italian Cinema
Contemporary Italian Politics

Other Courses
- International Cultural Relations
- Human Geography
- Ethnopolitics, Ethnic Networks, and Global Risks
- European Intellectual History
- Federalism and Decentralization in Europe

- Polyethnic Rome: Global Integration in Progress *
         (* this course is also taught in Italian )
- Paths of European Integration:  Poland and Italy *
         (* this course is also taught in Polish )


Professional Training Courses
- Introduction to Management                          
- Main Management Concepts
- Organizational Behavior
- Introduction to Marketing
- Consumer Behavior
- Brand Management
- Business Ethics
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- Italian Business Models
- Cultural Anthropology
- Intercultural Communications
- Political Communication
- Public Relations
- Research Methodology 
- Gestione valori intangibili e know how
- Internazionalizzazione dell’ intangibile
- Innovazione e gestione in contesto globale
- Gestione negozio settore bancario
- Creazione ed avvio della piccola impresa
- Management della microimpresa
- Formazione e-work
- Opportunità e sviluppo di nuove imprese in telelavoro
- Formazione e-learning
- Qualità in impresa ricettiva
- Orientamento al mercato della piccola e media impresa
- Internet marketing
- Guida al percorso formativo
- Gestione del tempo e miglioramento personale
- Introduzione al management.



Students

STUDENTS EVALUATIONS   (Selection)

All students evaluations are available upon request

Students' evalatuons from: RATEMYPROFESSORS.COM


GRADUATE STUDENTS Ph.D. DISSERTATIONS   (Selection)
- Nomine ecclesiastiche e atteggiamento del clero come oggetto delle relazioni tra la Santa Sede e il Regno d’Italia sotto il pontificato di Pio XI (1922-1939).  By:  J. K.
Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies.
GENEVA, Switzerland


STUDENTS THESES   (Selection)
- The Supranationalization of Immigration and Asylum Policy in the European Union.  By: T. H.
Current Trends in Managing Italian Higher Education.  By F. N.
The Reasons behind the Break-up of Yugoslavia.  By:  J. P.
The European Union Foreign Policy and Security and Defense Policy.  By:  A. T.

- The Italian Crisis: Role of the Monti Government.  By:  E. B.
The Education System and Private Higher Education in Bulgaria.  By:  E. P.

Croatia Entering European Union: The Accession Negotiation Towards the Full Membership.  By:  M. G.
Finding the Middle Way.  A Socio-Anthropological Look into the Creation and Ascension of the Swedish Social Democratic Party.  By:  J. S.

- The Role of Islam in the World’s Largest Muslim State:  Indonesia and Islamic Fundamentalism.  By:  M. B.
- The Nature of the Massacres in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia during the Years 1943-1944.  By:  K. M.
- The EU Legal Framework on Asylum and Immigration and the Italian Lack of Compliance with the EU Dictates.  By:  F. M.


TESTIMONIALS BY STUDENTS
(See the FIELD TRIPS session)


Photo


Guest Speakers


Conferences/Panels (selection)

2020   Edutech - the Future of Education and Science?
           ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Karpacz.             
2019   Global Education.
         
 XI INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
           PSYCHOLOGY WORLD: EDUCATION, SCIENCE, INNOVATION.  Kiev.
2019   Global Persception of Identity and Community.
           AIFS FELLOWSHIP SYMPOSIUM.  Rome.
2019   Innovation in Modern Education:  Global Context.
         
 VIII INTERNATIONAL CHLEPONOV's READING.  Kiev.
2019   University of the Future and Future of Universities.
           VIII INTERNATIONAL CHLEPONOV's READING.  Kiev.
2019   Global Identities, Ethnicity and Migration: Current Issues.
           International Intership Program.
           RICHMOND UNIVERSITY.  Rome.
2019   Education and its Influence on the Local Labour Market.
          
The Integrated Qualification System.
           5th EUROPEAN CONGRESS of LOCAL GOVERNMENT.  Krakow.
2019    European Integration and Reforms.
           Higher Education – Expectations for the Future.
            EUROPE - UKRAINE FORUM.  Rzeszów.
2019   Humanism, Culture, Modernity.
            International Program for Professional Development.
            EUROPEAN ACADEMIC ASSEMBLY.  Krakow.
2018    Higher education in terms of the development
            of modern technology and changes in the labor market.
            Higher Eduaction – Trends.
            ECONOMIC FORUM OF YOUNG LEADERS.  Nowy Sącz.
2018    The impact of work automation and digitization on a modern
             labour market.
             Life Long Learning as a Key to Success.
             XXVIII ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Krynica.             
2018    Humanitarian Discourse of the Multicultural World:
            Science, Education, Communication.
            Higher Education in European and Global Context.
            
1st INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM.  Kiev.
2018    Cooperation of Youth as a Chance for the United Europe.
            Ukraine in Global Education Context.
            EUROPE - UKRAINE FORUM.  Rzeszów.
2017    Re-Innovation.
            Organization and Innovation in Property Management. 
            CAMERA dei DEPUTATI CONFERENCE.  Rome.
2017    Education without Borders – European Priorities in Education.
            Education without Borders: Higher Education Globalized.
            XXVII ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Krynica.
2016    Understanding Contemporary Italian Culture.
             BRADLEY UNIVERSITY Conference. Rome.
2016    The Importance of Higher Education in the Formation of the Future Europe.
             XXVI ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Krynica.


2015     Introduction to Reinventing the Market.
             SINTEG NATIONAL CONVENTION.  Florence.
2015     Managing Knowledge Transfer.
             LISIAI - EMMECI CONFERENCE.  Venice.
2015     Innovation in Knowledge Transfer and Higher Education 
             XXV ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Krynica. 
2014     Knowledge Transfer: Intangible and Global.
             MADE CONFERENCE.  Milano.
2014     Educational Experiences and Experience-Education.
             Active, Independent Modes of Engagement and Research.
             RICHMOND UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE. Rome.
2014     Human Capital Managemet and Development in Transnational Education.
             SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE.  Florence.
2013       Higher Education in European and Global Context.
               VIII International Scientific Conference, 
               Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine.  Kiew.
2013      Knowledge Transfer from Local to Global.
               XXII ECOMOMIC FORUM.  Krynica.
2013      Higher Education from Local to Global.
               XIII International Conference.  KAAFM University.  Krakow.
2012      Higher Education from Local to Global.
               III International Conference. 
               University of Economics and Humanities.  Bielsko Biala.
2012      Soutenance de Thèse.
              Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies.
              Geneva.
2012      Higher Education Mobility in Global Context.         
               XII International Conference.  KAAFM University.  Krakow.
2011      Mobility as a Tool for Institutional Development
               and Transfer of Innovation to Education.
               Presidency of  the (Education) Council of the European Union. 
               European Conference.  Sopot.
2011      Security, Politics, and Higher Education in Global Context.
               XI International Conference.  KAAFM University.  Krakow.


2010      Global Education in Contemporary World.
              International Conference.  KAAFM University, Krakow.
2010     The Fortune of the Gypsies.
              National Conference.  Opera Nomadi  NGO, Rome.
2010     The Future of Territorial Associations.
              National Annual Organizational Conference.  Confedilizia. Rome.
2010     Communication and Social Networks in the Era of Intellectual Capitalism.
              Conference SINTEG. L’Aquila.
2009     Management of Corporate Property for Education.
              Conference.  Pratese Industrialists Union.  Prato. 
2009     The International Economic and Financial Crisis.
               XIX ECOMOMIC FORUM, Krynica. 
2009      Central Europe – Eastern Europe: A New Iron Curtain?
               XIX ECOMOMIC FORUM, Krynica.
2009      New Scenarios in International  Property Managements.
               Conference SINTEG.  Catanzaro.
2009      Trends of Global Education.
               International Conference.  KAAFM University, Krakow.
2009      Academic Teaching about Rom (Gypsy) Culture.
               Conference.  Regione Lazio,  Rome.
2008      Innovation and property management.
               Conference.  SINTEG, Rome.
2008      Current Realities of the Roma People in Italy.
               Conference.  Summer School, Ohrid.
2008      Eastern Europe from Communism to Democracy.
               Conference.  John Cabot University, Rome.
2007      Global Education in the Era of Globalization.
               International Conference. 
               Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski UNIVERSTY, Krakow.
2007      International Education in Rome.
               TEK International Education Meeting.  Krakow.
2006      The Culture and the Market of Global Education.
               International Seminar.  Lazarski University, Warsaw.
2006      Global Private Education.                
               Sixth International Academic Conference. 
                Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski UNIVERSITY, Krakow.
2006      The “Born Global” University.
               TEK International Education Meeting.  Krakow.


2005       Delocalizing International Universities in Tuscany.
               Conference.  Arcidosso.
2004      Education with a Global Perspective. 
               Fourteenth Annual International Conference
               American Association of University Administrators.
2004      Migration and Identity in Europe: the Case of Italy.
               International  Conference.  John Cabot University, Rome. 
2004      Identity, Ethnicity and the Polyethnic State.
               International Conference.  John Cabot University, Rome.
2003      A New Cultural Presence.
               International Conference.  Columbia University & ENEL, Larderello.
2003      International Professional Integration in Europe. 
               Conference.  International  School of Graduate Studies, Volterra.
2002      Professional Integration: from Asia to Italy. 
              Conference.  International  School of Graduate Studies, Volterra.
2002      International Graduate Schools in Europe.
              Conference.  International  School of Graduate Studies, Volterra.
2001      International Education and Experience Education.
               Conference.  International School of Graduate Studies, Volterra.
2001      Il ponte delle idee.  La Scuola Internazionale di Alta Formazione. 
               Conference.  American Chamber of Commerce.
               European University Institute, Florence.
2000    Culture maggioritarie e culture minoritarie: incontri e scontri. 
               Conference, University of Venice. Venice.
1998      Frontières et changements de “l’espace nationale”
               dans l’ istoire de l’ Europe du Centre-Est.
               UNESCO Conference, University of Lublin, Lublin.



Consulting


Publications

LIST OF PUBLICATIONS (Selection)
Full text of publications also in:  www.researchgate.net

Articles
- G. Simoncini, "Від традиційної освіти до глобальної"  Директор Tом 21 No. 1, 2020.
- G. Simoncini, "Global Mind Constructing" MIND Journal No. 3, 2017.
- G. Simoncini, "Globalizing Higher EducationMIND Journal No. 3, 2017.
- G. Simoncini, M. Kneller, “Higher Education: the Challenge to Link Global and Local. In: Makiela Z. (ed.), Innowacje i procesie zarzadania regionem.  KTE- KAAFM University Press,  Krakow, 2014.
- G. Simoncini, O. Kovtun, "Basic Principles of Teaching Aviation English. In: The Sixth World Congress "Aviation in the XXI-st Century". ICAO, NAU, MESU, National  Academy of Science of Uraine, Kiev, 2014.
- G. Simoncini, “Mobility and Current Trends in Global Education.” In: Mendel M., Atlas A., (eds.), Mobility as a Tool to Acquire and Develop Competences from Childhood to Seniority. Foundation for the Development of the Education System. Warsaw, 2012.
- G. Simoncini, “Trends in Global Higher Education.” In: Aksman J., Pulki J. (eds.), Konteksty wychowania i edukacji.  KAAFM University Press. Krakow, 2012.  
- G. Simoncini, “Security, Politics, and Higher Education in Global Context.”  In:  XI International Academic Conference. KAAFM University Press.  [Forthcoming].
- G. Simoncini, Mobilność i aktualne trendy w edukacji na swiecie.”  In: Mendel M., Atlas A., (eds.), Mobilność sposobem zdobywania i rozwijania kompetencji – od juniora do seniora. Fundacja Rozwoju Systemu Edukacji. Warszawa, 2012.
- G. Simoncini, “Global Private Education.” In:  Bednarczyk B., Lason M. (eds.), Contemporary Determinants of International Relations.  WSiFM. Krakow, 2006.
- G. Simoncini, “A New Cultural Presence.” In: Baratloo M., et al. (eds), Geothermal Larderello: Tuscany, Italy.  New Urbanisms / Columbia University. Princeton, 2005.
- G. Simoncini, “Politiche etniche minoritarie e maggioritarie nella Polonia del XX secolo.” Letterature di Frontiera, Vol. 19, No. 1, 2001.
- G. Simoncini, “Monoethnic Poland views Polyethnic Poland.”  Nationalities Papers, [in progress/forthcoming].
- G. Simoncini, “National Minorities of Poland at the end of the Twentieth Century.” The Polish Review. Vol. 43, No. 2, 1998.
- G. Simoncini, “Factionalism, Soviet Interference, and the Beginning of Stalin’s Manipulation in the Communist Party of Poland.”  South East European Monitor, No. 3, 1995.
- G. Simoncini, “Ethnic and Social Diversity in the Membership of the Communist Party of Poland: 1918-1938.” Nationalities Papers, Special Issue, Vol. XXII, No. 1, 1994.
- G. Simoncini, “The Polyethnic State: National Minorities in Interbellum Poland.”  Nationalities Papers, Special Issue, Vol. XXII, No. 1, 1994.


Books
- G. Simoncini, European Ethnopolitics:  Nationhood, and National Identities in Eastern Europe.  [in progress].

- G. Simoncini, The Communist Party of Poland: 1918-1929.  A Study in Political IdeologyMellen Press. Lewiston, New York; Queenston, Canada; Lampeter, United Kingdom, 1993.  pp. II-270.

          Reviewed in:
          - Raymond Taras, The Polish Review.  Vol. 42, No. 2, 1997.
          - Edislav Manetovic, Nationalities Papers.  Vol. 24, No. 2, 1996
          - Andrzej Garlicki, Przegląd Historyczny.  Vol. 86, No. 2, 1995.

- G. Simoncini, Revolutionary Organizations and Revolutionaries in Interbellum Poland.  Mellen Press.  Lewiston, New York; Queenston, Canada; Lampeter, United Kingdom, 1992.  pp. XI-278.      

        Reviewed in:
        - Andrzej Garlicki, Przegląd Historyczny.  No.  2, 1995.
        - George S. Bobinski, American Reference Books Annual.  Vol. 24, 1993.


Papers/Studies
- G. Simoncini, “Ethnic and Social Diversity in the Membership of the Communist Party of Poland: 1918-1938.”  WPS in International Studies.  I-92-13. Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, California, 1992.


Edited Volumes
- G. Simoncini, (editor)  "Global Mind Constructing"
MIND Journal No. 3, 2017. 

- G. Simoncini, H. Huttenbach, (editors), “Ethnopolitics in Poland.”  
Nationalities Papers, Special Issue Vol. XXII, No. 1, 1994. 
          Reviewed in:        
                          - Jerzy Tomaszewski, Słowo Żydowskie, No. 21(73), 1994.
                          - Israel Figa, Unser Tsait, No. 6, 1995.


Coordination of Edited Volumes - Nationalities Papers 
Special Topic Issues Series
-  "Peoples from the North"  (1999)
-  "Focus on Kazakhstan: History, Ethnicity, Society"  (1998)
-  "Central and East European Linguistic Minorities under Transition"  (1998)
-  "The Disintegration of Yugoslavia: Inevitable or Avoidable?" (1997)
-  "The Nexus of Gender and Ethnicity"  (1997)
-  "Hungary and the Hungarian Minorities"  (1996)
-  "Czech - Sudeten German Relations"  (1996)
- "Implementing Language Law: Perestroika and Its Legacy in Five Republics"  (1995)
-  "Visions and Policies: Estonia’s Path to Independence and Beyond"  (1995
-  "Ethnopolitics in Poland"  (1994)
-  "Voices from the Slovene Nation"  (1993)
-  "The Ex-Soviet Nationalities without Gorbachev"  (1992)
-  "Religious Consciousness in the Glasnost Era"  (1992)
-  "The Gypsies in Easter Europe"  (1991)





Teaching & Research

Teaching

Columbia University
Barnard College
New York University
Pace University
St. John's University
John Jay College of Criminal Justice CUNY
City Collegge CUNY
Richmond University London
N.A.T.O. Defence College
John Cabot University
CEA University of New Haven
KAAFM University Cracow
University of Rome
Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna of Advanced Studies Pisa
Ss. Cyril and Methodius University Ochrid
Military Academy Scuola Ufficiali Carabinieri Roma
University of St. Thomas


Research


Professional Training



Education

1992  STANFORD UNIVERSITYStanford, California
HOOVER INSTITUTION ON WAR, REVOLUTION AND PEACE
Post-Doctoral Fellowship Title VIII.  Political Science


1991  COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY,  New York City
Ph.D.  in History.  Dissertation in Political Ideology


1990  COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY,  New York City
INSTITUTE OF EAST CENTRAL EUROPE
Certificate


1986  COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY,  New York City
M.Phil.  Master of Philosophy
(Grade: Excellent)


1982  UNIVERSITY OF PISA,  Pisa, Italy
B.A. (Laurea) in Philosophy
(Grade: Summa cum Laude)



Academic Field Trips

Field Trips EUROPE

Politics of Genocide:

Auschwitz
&
Krakow


(Nazi and Communist Genocides)
Politics of Crime:

Palermo
&
Corleone


(Cosa Nostra Organized Crime)
Politics of Religion:

Sarajevo
&
Srebrenica


(Muslims, Christians, and Jews)
Politics of Identity:

Krakow
&
Wadowice


(Polish Catholicism and Identity)
Politics of Separation:

Skopje
&
Šutka


("Gypsies" and "Non-Gypsies")
Politics of Ethicity

Krakow
&
Lviv



(The Myth of Galicja)

Field Trips

Rome

"Rebibbia
State Prison"
Rome

"Carabinieri Military Academy"
Rome

"Carabinieri MIlitary School"
Rome

"The Great Mosque"
Roma

"Gypsy Camp"

The Rom Community
Rome

"Camera dei Deputati"

Italian Parliament
Rome

"Power: Palaces and Places"
Rome

"Former Gestapo Headquarters"
Rome

"The Jewish Ghetto"
Rome

"Mussolini"
Former Residence & Bunker
Rome

"The Court of Appeal"
Rome

"Museum of Italian Emigration"
Rome

"Risorgimento Museum"
Rome

"The Italian Senate"
Rome

"PDL Party Headquarters"
Rome

"FI Party Headquarters"
Rome

"Jewish Catacombs"
Rome

"Cinecittà Studios"

Field Trips Others

Florence

"State Court House"
Florence

"Pandolfini Auction House"
Florence

"Juvenile State Prison"
Florence

"Toxicology Center City Hospital"
Volterra

"High Security State Prison"
Volterra

"The Municipality"
Siena

The "Contrada" Civic Society


Library / Archives

R.A.G.S. (Raccolta Archivio Gabriele Simoncini) Library and Archives

R.A.G.S. is a private collection of books, periodicals, and archival materials covering modern Eastern Europe / Russia, and focusing on modern Poland. A small section addresses modern Italy and Western Europe. Fields represented are: history, politics, philosophy, ideologies, labor movements, ethnicities, and national minorities. The collection is mostly in English and Polish languages, with a large section in Italian. There are materials in German, French, Russian,Yiddish, and other Eastern European languages.


The Library (about 10,000 volumes) covers primarily Poland and Eastern Europe / Russia from the early 1800s to the present. The volumes are primarily in English and Polish, secondarily in Italian, with volumes in French, German, Yiddish and other Slavic languages. Most books, whether specialized monographs or of general subjects, have been published in the last sixty years. The library includes a substantial international section of reference and bibliography. A conspicuous section covers modern Western Europe and Italy in the fields of history, philosophy, and politics.


The Archive (about 5,000 items, 10 linear meters - original documents, manuscripts, microfilms, xerox copies, photocopies, clips, and photographs) is primarily in Polish with two large sections in English and Italian.  It contains documents (from Polish and international sources) on modern Poland, from the eginning of the twentieth century to the present, with two major foci: interbellum Poland and late Communist-post Communist Poland. A minor section in Italian covers Italy, mostly contemporary politics.


The Periodical Collection (over 50 periodical serials, out-of-print and current, several complete serials) contains mostly historical and political periodicals and journals.  It lists among others,  in English: Slavic Review 1962-1997; Nationalities Papers 1976-1997; Soviet Studies 1973-1975; The Russian Review 1975-1981; The Polish Review 1956-1997;  in Polish: Niepodlegŀość 1929-1939; Czerwony Sztandar 1918-1938; Niepodlegŀość Nowy Jork - Londyn 1972-1996; Z Pola Walki (Moskwa) 1926-1934; Z Pola Walki (Warszawa) 1956-1990; Gŀos Ludu 1948; Po Prostu 1956-1957; Rada Robotnicza 1957-1961; Życie Gospodarcze 1956-1960; Wojskowy Przegląd Historyczny 1956-1986; Najnowsze Dzieje Polski 1958-1968; Dzieje Najnowsze 1969-1983; Kultura Paryż 1979-1982; Nowe Drogi 1947-1990; Solidarność 1981; Biuletyn Żydowskiego Institutu Historycznego w Polsce 1950-1990;  in Russian: Novii Satirikon 1917; Biulletin Oppositsii 1929-1940.


The collection has an alphabetic and subject catalog (cards 7 x 10 cm) of most books in Polish, and an electronic searchable catalog of most books in English. Electronic general cataloging is in progress. 




Contact

Gabriele Simoncini
GENF International Consulting
Via Montesabotino 66
53036 Poggibonsi  Siena (Tuscany) 
ITALY
Tel +39 058 888 421


Mobile:   + 39 340 581 7820

Email:   gabriele.simoncini@genf.it

Request Curriculum Vitae


Request Curriculum Vitae

All fields are required


Description

FIELD TRIP  Politics of Genocide:  Auschwitz & Krakow - (Nazi and Communist Genocide)

Exploring the darker side of our past, John Cabot University students enrolled in our course on Genocide undertook a field trip to Auschwitz extermination camp and Krakow organized by Professor Simoncini during the Spring Semester.  The course on Genocide, developed several years ago by Professor Simoncini has been met with great interest by students.  Professor Simoncini, who received his PhD from Columbia University, is an expert in this field having spent several years of his academic career in Poland, Germany, and Eastern Europe.  He teaches the Genocide course to include field trips, guest speakers, social network links, and audiovisual materials.
The class field trip was based in Krakow, Poland, the capital city of a region that experienced varieties of genocide policies including the Nazi and Communist ones.  The visit to Auschwitz was very detailed, lasted several hours, and was led by a guide from the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum.  Students then visited the much larger Birkenau compound. Students were exposed to a unique experience, where they could directly visualize what they have been studying in class.
The field trip continued with visit of the original Schindler Factory, now transformed into an innovative and interactive museum. The students were able to better contextualize genocide in historical and cultural terms.
The next segment of the trip was the visit to the Ukrainian Cultural Center.  The genocide of the Ukrainians was an important example of genocide in Europe that the students had studied in class with the usage of documentary materials.  At the end of the day, participants had an authentic Ukrainian dinner in the Center’s cellar.
The following day, the students visited the Jewish quarter of Krakow, one of the most significant examples of historical Jewish life in Europe.  Students had the opportunity to visit old Synagogues and places of past and present Jewish life, including the Galicja Museum, dedicated to the Jewish life of the region.  Students were also guided by Professor Simoncini to visit a private residence building, still maintaining its original, untouched structure from historical time.  They had the opportunity to get a feeling of past private Jewish life, as uniquely described in his books by literature Nobel laureate I. B. Singer.
A section of the trip was dedicated to the visit of the city of Nowa Huta, the most relevant Polish example of Communist utopia’s social and architectural experimentation, including genocidal practices through labor policies.  This event has been portrayed in A. Wajda film “Man of Marble”, watched by the students before the trip.  The visit was a real flash-back into a different, incredible world. The experience was completed by a meal in a surviving Communist restaurant (a real rarity known only to Professor Simoncini), where the smelly cabbage soup, the socialist plates, the aluminum spoons, and a “proletarian” menu, had remained unchanged since 1970.
Students had the opportunity to explore the Center of Krakow where Professor Simoncini explained everything connected with places where Nazi, Communist, and other genocides intersected.  This unique atmosphere was perfectly described by A. Wajda “Katyn”, a movie screened in class before the trip.  Professor Simoncini guided the students throughout places, materials, and documents, and because he speaks many languages of the regions, was able to help the students gain a greater understanding as he guided the students through many concealed aspects of the surrounding context.
Finally, the students had some time to admire the heart of Krakow, whose jewel is the Main Square, and with visits to the Royal Castle, the Old University, the National Museum (including the Leonardo da Vinci’s portrait of Cecilia), and the surrounding scenic Vistula river.
The somber aspect of the field trip subject was mitigated by the embracing friendly atmosphere of this Polish city, crowded with college students, clubs, and all kinds of music and events.  Good beer, a taste of vodka, and good food, made everyone happy.  Female students received red roses.  Hand kissing (an old Polish noble tradition) might happen next time!


Testimonials

I really loved this field trip. As a member of the Jewish community I have always wanted to visit Auschwitz and believe that it is vitally important to visit in order to ensure that our society as a whole never forgets this atrocity. In addition to this, Professor Simoncini was the perfect leader for this trip. His passion and enthusiasm for Poland, the history of the Jewish people, and Holocaust studies was not only inspiring, but also was incredibly captivating, making anything he talked about incredibly interesting and engaging. I would wholeheartedly recommend this trip to other students and all people. I loved how we followed the path of Schindler’s list and our visits to the utopian city and the salt mines on Sunday were very cool. The trip had a fantastic pace and was incredibly fun while still being very educational. I wish I could have taken this trip with additional classes for 3 credits. That would have been fantastic, if only you offered that this semester. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this trip and to give feedback. I wish I could do it again. Thanks,  Zach Kotler  (AIFS Fall 2015)


The trip to Poland with Professor Simoncini was THE BEST trip I took during my time abroad. Krakow is an incredibly underrated city and I think everyone should visit if they have the chance. Professor Simoncini was an amazing tour guide. He obviously knows so much but didn’t overwhelm us with information and really let us enjoy all that Krakow had to offer besides its WWII and Communist history. I think it needs to be stressed that while this trip does have a lot of time devoted to visiting the camps and learning about Communism, it’s not entirely dedicated to this. Krakow is a great city for young people including a vibrant nightlife and has some of the best food I ate in Europe. That being said, I’m really happy that I was able to see the camps and the city of Krakow in this historical context. I hope one day that I’ll be able to return to Poland!  Also the museum at Schindler’s Factory was fantastic and I wish there had been an hour or two to dedicate to going through it. It is incredibly interactive and multi-media based and seemed super cool.  Zoe Gardner  (AIFS Spring 2016)


Thank you so much for the incredible trip. Here is my testimonial: When I saw that AIFS had a school-sponsored trip to Krakow, Poland, I jumped at the opportunity to go with them. This was a standout feature for me that helped me choose AIFS over other programs because AIFS was the only group I found that had something like this. Not only was it extremely cool to go somewhere off the beaten track of typical study abroad trips, but it would also be an extremely valuable opportunity to visit Auschwitz with a guide and locals who knew the city well. The trip ended up being the best decision I've made so far on study abroad. The trip balanced fun experiences and emotional experiences very well, and all of our days were jam packed with cool tours and delicious food. I never imagined myself enjoying Zapiekanki on a corner in Krakow after exploring an old castle or watching a traditional Polish dance in the night market and laughing with friends over pierogis, yet here I was in Krakow doing exactly that! However, the part of the trip that will stand out to me the most was our trip to Auschwitz. It will probably end up being the most meaningful part of my study abroad experience. While very difficult to see, I am very grateful AIFS helped bring me there. Being Jewish, I knew I wanted to see Auschwitz at one point in my life. Pulling up to Birkenau and seeing the infamous gate and train tracks was very overwhelming. I felt very connected to my heritage, and without this trip, I may have never had the opportunity to visit such a deeply important place.  Alison Cohen  (AIFS Spring 2016)


I thought the trip to Poland was amazing and truly moving. I would definitely recommend the trip to other students and would take a three-credit class on the material if it were offered at the school. Although a very heavy trip emotionally, I think that it is necessary for everyone to see Auschwitz. I enjoyed the history and tours of the trip. Professor Simoncini was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. I am also convinced that Marco knows everything and he keeps me laughing! In addition to this, I thought the trip was well organized and provided a good balance of group tours and free time. Overall I loved the trip to Poland and am grateful that I had the opportunity to taste the tragedy of the Holocaust and so much more.  Lauren Felice  (AIFS Fall 2015)


Having the experience to go to Poland, I thought was almost a once in a lifetime opportunity. Being able to go personally for me was a big deal, because my grandma is from there so seeing the places she has told me about in person was a very interesting. Being able to go to Auschwitz was a highlight of the tip you could say. Growing up in history class you would always have a section about the holocaust and you would discuss what you thought about it and such, but you never would think about going there one day.  My aunt and uncle work and live out in Washington D.C., so I have been their many times, and Iv gone through the holocaust museum there, and going through it hit you with emotion, but nothing like walking through Auschwitz, going into buildings and hearing what it was used for.  Over all I thought this trip was an amazing experience to go on! When people come to study abroad no one would ever think about going to Poland.  Personally if this trip wasn’t offered I don’t think I would have thought to go to Poland, and everywhere we visited during that weekend. If this trip was offered again, I would suggest for the students to go on it, even if they aren’t really “excited” to go, it definitely is worth it.  Emily Schneeberger  (AIFS Spring 2016)


The Poland trip was very educational and really changed my perspective on the reality of Germany occupation in Poland. Before this trip I just had a basis of what happened to the Jews during World War II from American history textbooks and what we would learn in history classes. However, actually going to Poland and really experiencing and seeing what happened, changed everything. The trip was very emotional in the sense that you’re walking in the same footsteps as the Jews did and having to imagine what they went through. I believe its something everyone should experience, because it does change the way you think about life and how this can never happen again. I believe that this trip should be offered again because it’s a learning experience and shows students the history and reality of what actually happened. Also, having the professor there was very helpful because he gave us the true hard facts of what happened and was very knowledgeable about all the details. The sites that we visited, such as Auschwitz, helped my understanding of what actually happened in history. Though it was emotional to visit, I believe its something future students should experience as well, because it’s such a powerful learning tool. In addition, when we toured the Jewish Ghetto it was helpful to have the professor there and explaining exactly what happened, it was a very interesting experience of stepping back in time. Overall, the whole trip was very educational and helped me further understand the history of German occupation in Poland. I would definitely recommend having this trip available to future students.  Alicia Sanderson  (AIFS Spring 2016)

Going on the Poland trip was by far one of the most eye opening experiences that I have ever witnessed. I believe that everyone needs to go to Auschwitz in order to confirm that we will never repeat this part of our history. Not only did I learn a lot about the past, but also Krakow is a beautiful city full of rich culture and amazing food. Poland was by far one of my favorite trips that I have gone on since I have been in Europe.  Mackenzie Busekist  (AIFS Spring 2016)

I greatly enjoyed the field trip to Poland. I had signed up with the intent of wanting to learn about the history there and I had heard Poland was a beautiful place, and people were right; Poland was absolutely lovely!! It was one of my favorite trips from the whole semester. I felt that there was a very good balance of scheduled, tour activities and student free time. Professor Simoncini did a great job as our tour guide! You can tell he is so unbelievably knowledgeably about the topics he talked about in Poland and he truly has a passion for the subject, which made it so much more enjoyable to participate in! The only thing I would recommend was maybe finding the time for the Schindler’s museum. We were able to visit it and walk through quickly but it was the most interactive and visually appealing museum that I have been to abroad and I would have appreciated a little bit more time to more thoroughly walk through it! Overall, it was a fantastic trip and I enjoyed every second of it!  Megan Kaveney  (AIFS Spring 2016)               

Before going on the Poland fieldtrip, I would never have chosen to go to Poland for a weekend trip, but because it was offered through the program, I decided it would be worth it. I did not expect for the trip to be one of my favorite trips during my time abroad. I loved the city of Krakow and all of the culture and food that was there. The hotel that we stayed in was perfect and probably the best part was the breakfast. I feel like I learned so much and experienced things that I never expected to experience during my time abroad. My favorite part was probably just being able to walk to the market and grab some food and just walk around and listen to the music. Auschwitz was a great experience, not necessarily fun, but definitely eye-opening. Like I said Krakow was an amazing country, I loved every single moment of it.  Candace Phillips  (AIFS Spring 2015)

I will never forget what I saw and the way this trip made me feel. Studying what happened in WWII is dark and surreal and seems to have happened ages ago. I think it is important to see the tragedies of our global history in order to prevent it from happening again and also to have a greater appreciation for the beauty and good the world has to offer. I was very impressed with our tour guides and the places we went that most people would not get to visit like the house that Amon Goeth, the commandant of the Krakow-Plaszow concentration camp, lived in during the war. From the Jewish Ghetto to Schindler’s Factory to Auschwitz-Birkenau, our weekend in Poland was extremely educational and for some personal. Though this weekend was thought provoking and heavy, it was also inspirational. The people are kind and welcoming and willing to share their history in order to educate others. The food, especially the zapiekanka, was another wonderful part of the experience that brought us closer as group and to the culture. Another part of the trip that helped lighten the mood was going to the salt mines. The chapels inside the mine with carvings and chandeliers all made from salt are incredible. I hope that AIFS continues to offer this excursion to future groups so that they too can have an unforgettable weekend.  Haley Wright  (AIFS Spring 2015)

Going to Poland was probably one of the best excursions I have done with AIFS and Richmond University so far in my study abroad experience. Not only was it fun and enjoyable, but it was also eye-opening. Growing up in America, there are some aspects of history that we cannot fully understand by just reading a textbook. Having the opportunity to go and see the Jewish Ghetto and Auschwitz put everything I had ever learned into perspective. That is just something that you cannot get from a history textbook or lecture. As a history major and a fourth-generation Polish American, this trip was one that I will remember and cherish forever. While this trip was educational, it was not worth any credit. While I would have gone regardless, this trip should be offered as credit. This is a trip that everyone should take at least once in their lifetime and they should have the chance to get the most out of the experience. If this trip were offered for credit, it would give people that opportunity. It would allow students to really absorb what they are seeing and contemplate and analyze all the information. While the Holocaust might not be the most attractive area of history, it is one of the most important both from a historical perspective and from a contemporary perspective. This trip exceeded my expectations and I cannot wait to share what I have learned with others.  Amy Dugger  (AIFS Spring 2015)

To be completely honest I am still in awe from our trip to Poland. I can recall learning about some of the horrors of the Holocaust in high school and primary school, but nothing compares to actually seeing it in person. To stand where the victims of the Holocaust stood sent chills down my spine and really made me wonder how the Nazi’s could be so callous. If I had to choose my favorite part of the whole trip it would be when we saw the entire luggage that belonged to the Jewish men and women who lost their lives. At that moment the whole experience became much more human.  If it were my decision there would be a whole class taught about the Holocaust with the trip and a research paper a mandatory part of the class. I would have taken that class. Although, I was a big fan of the trip I do not think students who go on the Poland excursion should be able to write a paper and earn credits. That should not be an incentive for students to go because that undermines the purpose of the trip. Obviously, the trip was on the expensive side and that probably deters some students, but at the same time it shows that the people who went really wanted to be there. I feel that if students are going just to earn some “easy credits” will bring down the group morale. In closing that was by far my favorite part of my whole study abroad experience. The whole trip was expertly done and I hope you continue to offer it as long as your program exists. I hope my feedback helps with your decision. Sincerely,  David Dautrich Jr.  (AIFS Spring 2015)

The excursion to Poland was an eye opening experience for me. We stepped off of that airplane and within an hour we walking the same steps of those who lost their lives in Auschwitz. One can try to sympathize and feel a sense of compassion for the ruthlessness of such terror, but I simply couldn’t. I will never have a full understanding of what tragedy these innocent individuals experienced. I felt a sense of disappointment that I was not brought to tears fro the many eye opening sights. I couldn’t grasp such brutality. But as a young individual living in a new generation, if I don’t expose myself to the cruelty of history and learn from it, history will repeat itself. I am the change in the world. We need to do better at understanding one another and showing a sense of compassion towards others. As much discomfort that I felt walking through the death camp, I am grateful for the eye opening experience and the many life lessons that I have learned. After visiting Auschwitz, I was privileged to sit at the dinner table with the professor and gain insightful information about Poland. Krakow is a charming city with many friendly people. I enjoyed self-exploration to various shops and had the opportunity to talk to a local Polish woman about her life experience living in Canada and her travel to Poland. She was grateful for her country and the life she has created for herself. She gave her opinion about politics in Poland and Italy. I asked a plethora of questions and gained a new perspective on the many personalities that surround me each day. Chatting with that woman was the highlight of my trip. I think it is a beautiful thing when you are able to spark conversation with locals of a community that you are completely unfamiliar with. I felt a sense of freedom in Poland. I was able to walk downtown and shop at the local market. The sun was shining bright and it was a perfect way to end a weekend full of learning.  Angela Pascarella  (AIFS Spring 2014)




Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery




s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

 
Politics of Crime: The Sicilian Mafia  
(One credit course)
 
Summary of Course Content:  

The class is taught in ROME and PALERMO.  The first part in ROME, consists of introductory lectures and audiovisual materials analyzed in the classroom, with reports presented.  The second part in PALERMO, consists of a field trip based in Palermo (and Corleone), the capital city of a region representing the core of Cosa Nostra origin and development.  The visit explores different significant and tragic sites that mark the history of the Sicilian mafia.  Students are introduced to historical, political, and social aspects of the criminal activities.  Contextualization with the realities of Sicilian and Italian societies is discussed.  Special attention is dedicated to anti-mafia culture recently emerging from the civic society.  The course is a unique, dynamic, uncompromised “experience education”, accompanied by group discussion.
 
Course aims:
The course aims to:
- make students aware of the main theories and critical discussions on politics of crime,
- give students conceptual tools to understand the socio cultural contextualization of crime with power,
- provide the students with an understanding of the emerging civic society anti-mafia culture.
 
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the course, successful students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the main critical analyses and discussions of crime and politics,
- demonstrate an understanding of identity plurality of Sicily in terms of ethnicity, religion, and culture,
- demonstrate an understanding of the anti-mafia culture and its relationship with the Italian state.
 
Required reading:
- Dickie J., Cosa Nostra: A History of Sicilian Mafia.  Hodder, 2004.
- Dickie J., Mafia Republic.  Sceptre, 2014.
 
Recommended reading
- Mammone A. (ed.), The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Italy.  Routledge, 2018
 
Program:        
- Session   1   Friday               ROME              Class lecturing, audio-visual materials screening.       
- Session   2   Friday               Palermo          The Cosa Nostra mafia historical areas. 
- Session   3   Saturday          Palermo          Corleone (the capital city of Sicilian mafia).
- Session   4   Sunday             Palermo         The anti-mafia culture.
- Session   5   Friday               ROME              Class discussion, presentations, reports.
 
Course requirements:  
- Regular attendance and participation in Rome, in Palermo, and Corleone.
- A Final Report/Diary/Paper.
 
Assessment Methods:
- Participation to preparatory session         before the field trip                            25%  of the grade
- Field trip participation                                 during the field trip                            50%  of the grade
- Final paper/report                                       after the field trip                              25%  of the grade 
                                                                                                            
Recommended films:
M. Turco, Excellent Cadavers.  M. T. Giordana, One Hundred Steps.  F. F. Coppola, The Godfather.
 
HIGHLIGHTS:         
A unique academic and life experience. “Experience Education” taught at the highest academic levels and designed for students “hands on” principle of knowledge transferring and experiencing.
 


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery



s

Description

The field trip is based in Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina, the capital city of a region in continuous change throughout history.  Professor Gabriele Simoncini, accompanies students, lecturing on the religious, historical, and sociological aspects of the area.  Students will be guided through the region, experiencing an intense exposure to the diversity of religion, identity, and ethnopolitics.


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery











s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery





s

Description

Field trip led by Prof. Gabriele Simoncini, Ph.D. Columbia University, NY.
 The field trip is based in Krakow, Poland, the capital city of a region that is providing the most profound expression of a vibrant Catholicism.  Professor Gabriele Simoncini, who lived in the area for many years, accompanies students throughout, lecturing on the religious, historical, and sociological aspects of the area.  Students will be guided through the region, experiencing an intense exposure to the uniqueness of Polish faith and a culture.
 


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery











s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery




s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery




s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery






s

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS


Testimonials

WORK IN PROGRESS


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESSs

Description

WORK IN PROGRESS



Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers Eastern European politics and societies from the eginning of the XX century to the contemporary time. A historical introduction to the period will be provided. The nations of Eastern Europe will be studied from two points-of-view: development within the single nation, interactions with other countries. Economic, social, and cultural aspects will be treated. The analysis of the post Communist era and current events will conclude the course. Special emphasis will be given to the issues of ethnicity and national minorities. Class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course will cover the history of the European Union, from its foundation in the fifties until the present. It will look at the different institutions inside the European Union and their role in the process of enlarging the Union and moving towards greater integration. Although its initial aim was political unity, the European unification process has been strongly based on the ideal of economic integration. Thus the course will look at the positive and negative effects of economic and monetary union. Other policies of the member states will also be covered, including agricultural, regional, social, environmental, and energy policies. The interrelationship between the different EU countries will be examined, as well as the relationship with other states, such as the US.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS


Description

The course introduces students to basic concepts, methods, and theories of the scientific study of politics. In so doing, the class provides a systematic understanding of the foundations of government, political systems, and political behavior. The course familiarizes students with the functioning of political institutions and political power, constitutional frameworks and procedures to obtain public legitimacy, and approaches to different fields, problems and issues of — domestic, comparative, and global — politics in the 21st century.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers the development of terrorism and counterterrorism from the early times to present.  Attention is given to the various articulations of terrorism including political, ethnic, separatist, religious, and state terrorism.  The debate over “new” vs. “old” typologies of terrorism is reviewed. Terrorism is analyzed as a political phenomenon in contrast to different forms of political violence including insurgency, guerrilla warfare, civil war, ethnic cleansing, unconventional warfare, and crime.  The challenges of terrorism to a free society are discussed in relation to globalization realities.  Major political, scholarly, and religious interpretations of terrorism’s different eras and phenomena are considered.  Counterterrorism and its articulations including “War on Terror” are the conclusive subjects of the program.  The class format includes lectures, discussion, teamwork, presentations, and audiovisual materials.  Students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology.  Guest speakers and field trips are planned.



Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This interdisciplinary course addresses the important and complex phenomenon of contemporary globalization. The political, social, economic and cultural aspects are explored from a specifically European perspective. Core themes of globalization debates, such as convergence, nationalism and inequalities as well as a range of global actors, agents and institutions are critically engaged with.  This course has a lecture/seminar format. Lectures will introduce the main topic and, with the support of slides, synthesize concepts, paradigms, theories and examples taken from the readings carried out by the students in advance of the class. Students will carry out in-class tasks (individually or in groups) and report on them. Experiential work will be used to elaborate concepts raised throughout the course.



Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers the concepts and the theories of modern political theory. The course analyses the main theoretical schools of political thought and ideologies. The course provides an examination of the ideas associated with modern ideologies including liberalism, nationalism, socialism, and others. Attention will be paid to the historical development of political theories. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

Ethnopolitics has been crucial in shaping politics and societies in recent time. It is frequently at the heart of disputes of international importance. The course covers different forms of identity politics including ethnopolitics, ethnic cleansing, and genocide, as manifested in the 20th and 21st centuries. We consider the politics of identity within the historical perspective, and also set in the international context. The program covers the Nazi and Communist genocides, European ethnic cleansing, and genocide including the cases of Armenia, Balkans, Ukraine, the Roma, Cambodia, Rwanda, and the Darfur region. Other specific current case studies of genocide may be analysed. Conceptualizations, theories, and the scholarly debate related to genocide as a political phenomenon are covered in a comparative way. Investigation of genocide across regions and time periods will be combined with the review of the debate about genocide’s definition, its development in these two centuries, patterns characterizing its occurrence, and hypothesized causes (whose identification can be controversial and difficult given the long historical run-up between causal agents and eventual ethnic hostilities). Genocide is also analysed as an international crime, together with the range of legal actions and Human Right Instruments presently addressing it. A major objective is to examine the causes of genocide and how genocide might be prevented. The class format includes lectures, discussion, team work, presentations, and audio-visual materials. The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology. Guest speakers and field trips are planned.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS


Description

This course covers the concepts, the theory and the practice of international politics. The course analyses the main theoretical schools of international politics, the foreign policy players, and major conflicts. Current issues of war and peace will be discussed. Attention will be paid to the historical development of the international political system. Recent trends in globalization will be analysed. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course examines the theoretical debate about definitions and conceptualizations of ethnicity and identity with a political and historical perspective. Major scholarly interpretations of thinkers, schools of thought, and periods covered, are considered. Priority is given to conceptualization of different theories and their historical development. European nationalism, ethnonationalism, and related ideologies are also analyzed. The program covers the relationships between nation-states, national and transnational minorities, and issues of social integration. Migration, immigration, and emigration phenomena are studied in relation to national identity end ethnicity. Experiences of ethnic cleansing and genocidal politics are also covered. Within the political arena, the course analyzes “ethnopolitics” as it relates to the issues of religion, language, demography, and territory. Focusing on the “European cultural area”, the program covers a series of case studies of current and past realities, including the Jewish, Italian, Gypsy, and German, experiences. Critical thinking and comparative analysis will be applied to achieve a clear understanding of current cultural debates and social realities. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The course examines the political systems in Western Europe and major political developments affecting Western Europe since 1945 through a comparative lens. Looking at historical legacies, political cultures, types of government, and party systems shaping the major Western European powers, students will gain an understanding of the constitutive features, and transnational developments, challenges and changes in Western European states. The class format includes lectures, discussion, teamwork, presentations, and audio-visual materials. The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology. Guest speakers and field trips are planned.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course examines enduring and contemporary questions of security and insecurity in the international system. Security has traditionally been defined in terms of strategic state politics and the use of military force to counter external military threats. The end of the Cold War and the ensuing conflicts of the late-20th century raised questions about the continued relevance of traditional theories of security. New security threats have been defined both in the academic literature and by state security strategies. This course critically evaluates these developments using IR and security studies theories, supplemented by practical case-studies. Students investigate the definition of the term security and threats to security, questions about the referent object of security, the root causes of insecurity and the methods of eliminating or lessening such threats. The course evaluates traditional and contemporary security concepts such as national security, conventional weapons systems, nuclear non-proliferation, human security, responsibility to protect, the poverty-security nexus in a post-Westphalian context.
 
The course will feature the participation of Italian Carabinieri Police/Army Force, including anti-terrorist and security special units.  Specific areas will be covered with the approach of “experience education” including:  National Security, Investigation, Pubic Order, Public Health and Environment, Labor and Food Frauds, Cultural Heritage and Anti-Counterfeiting, and International Cooperation.



Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course examines the political history of Europe in addition to its social and economic development. The course covers the period from the end of the Napoleonic era to the Congress of Berlin. Attention will be focussed on the history of ideas and ideologies including liberalism, nationalism, socialism, and the culture of Romanticism. Revolutions and national unification paths will be treated. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers political and social change in the recent history of Italy to the present, focussing on current political life and society. A general historical introduction is provided. Economic, social, and cultural aspects are treated. Political theories, political movements, and ideologies including Liberalism and Communism are covered. Nationalism and the Fascism era are analyzed. Investigation focuses on transitional phenomena, political players, and structural fundamentals. Italy is studied in the context of European Integration and the broader global scenario. Particular attention is dedicated to specific social issues including, corruption, political terrorism, and the Mafia. The Italian educational system, labour movement, and the “Made in Italy” business are treated. The Vatican, Catholic Church, and Freemasonry are analyzed. Identity and ethnicity are addressed including the issues of national identity, regionalism, separatism, and federalism. The program covers Italy as a multinational society analyzing ethnicity, immigration, and integration, with a special attention to the case of the Roma people. Major political and scholarly interpretations of the periods and topics covered will be considered. The class format includes lectures, discussion, teamwork, presentations, and audio-visual materials. The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology. Guest speakers and field trips are planned. 
 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS


Description

This course will cover the evolution of international human rights and of the various national, regional and international mechanisms designed for their protection. It will examine the theoretical foundations of the idea of human rights in various civilizations and cultures, evaluate its legacy within western and non-western traditions, and examines its meaning and relevance in addressing major issues in the contemporary world.  The class principally draws on the theories and methodological approaches of the following disciplines: Sociology, International Law and International Relations.  The course analyzes the specific content and interpretation of today's internationally recognized human rights treaties and conventions. Emphasis is placed upon the human rights framework of the United Nations and on the role and significance of the Human Rights Council. Regional and non-governmental experiences to codify and enforce standards of human rights protection are also studied. The historical, cultural and ideological background of human rights are reviewed. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The course provides a survey and analysis of political, economic, social, and cultural aspects of human rights; the problems and challenges of setting and upholding universal standards of respect for international human rights in contemporary world politics. Particular consideration will be given to the difficult tasks of defining and protecting universal principles of human rights, of considering the different cultural and theoretical approaches to these rights, and of creating effective methods of monitoring and enforcing human rights standards.  The historical, cultural and ideological background of human rights will be reviewed and the specific content and interpretation of today's internationally recognized human rights treaties and conventions will be closely analyzed. Emphasis, therefore, will be placed upon the human rights framework of the United Nations and on the role and significance of the recently created Human Rights Council. The more successful regional and non-governmental attempts to codify and enforce standards of human rights protection will also be studied, and to enhance your progress in this area you will enjoy the unique opportunity to meet and talk with guest speakers from Human Rights organizations in Rome.  This vigorous course offers a range of dynamic activities, from illustrated lectures, class discussions, your own collaborative presentations and personal portfolios to field trips, guest speakers, and film screenings, in order to develop the skills required to critically analyze the processes, concepts and cultural contexts of global human rights. Furthermore, in order to exploit and explore the new and ever-growing range of digital media adopted by international organizations to publicize and further their campaigns, you wll learn how to make extensive personal use of information and communication technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The Modern World since 1550 surveys the foundation and expansion of the world from the sixteenth-century to the end of the twentieth century.  The course examines the breakthroughs in communication and cultural exchanges between Europe and Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.  Emphasis is placed on the emergence of an interdependent global civilization.  This course fulfills the Historical Studies requirement in the Core Curriculum.  The organizing theme for this course is “Contact and Change.”  Our task is to explore how modern society emerged from increasingly global relations, even as this process was modified in different locations and time periods.  After a brief overview of the early origins of “globalization” we will review the major political, economic, and cultural changes over the past four centuries that have shaped our modern world.  While covering a large temporal and geographic range, the course will focus in particular on two questions:  what do we consider modern, and who benefits from modern change?  Major historical and scholarly interpretations of events, thinkers, and periods covered will be considered.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course focuses on the most significant events that contributed to the formation of modern Italy, starting from the fascist era and post war Italy. Institutional developments and political parties, Red Brigades, church-state relations, the Southern Question and the role of mafia, immigration and the role of Italy within the EU will be analyzed. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course explores the history of the Italian Mafia from the national unification of Italy until the present day. Topics studied include relationships within the organization, those between the Mafia and Italian Politics, and those between the Italian and the American Mafia.  The course aims to analyse the Italian Mafia through different but closely related perspectives: political, historical and sociological. We study the history of the Mafia from the Unification of Italy until the present day. The focus is on the Mafia’s political and social history, leading to the story of the American Mafia to which it gave birth. We also discuss attempts to fight the Mafia and analyse the reasons for the successes and failures of the anti-Mafia struggle.




Description

This course covers the development of political theory and the major political theorists from the classical times to the modern era. Attention is given to the various articulations of political thought including ethics, morals, society and state organization, the rule of law, and the science of politics.  The foundations for the formation of the modern nation state are analyzed.  The course covers major political thinkers including Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Hegel, and Marx.  Modern absolutism, Enlightenment, and Romanticism will be covered.  The concepts of natural rights, general will, and individualism will be studied. Ideologies are treated including Liberalism, Nationalism, Communism and their articulations.  Utopia, revolution, and the production of totalitarianism are the conclusive topics of the program.  Major political and scholarly interpretations of thinkers, schools of thought, and periods covered will be considered.  The class format includes lectures, discussion, team work, presentations, and audiovisual materials.  The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology.  Guest speakers and field trips are planned.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The course provides a survey and analysis of political, economic, social, and cultural aspects of human rights: the problems and challenges of setting and upholding universal standards of respect for international human rights in contemporary world politics. Particular consideration will be given to the difficult tasks of defining and protecting universal principles of human rights, of considering the different cultural and theoretical approaches to these rights, and of creating effective methods of monitoring and enforcing human rights standards.



Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The first part of this course covers the different concepts of comparative political analysis, while the second part compares and contrasts different political systems in a global context.  The course analyses political institutions, functions, and entities; discussing reasons, and methods.  Political culture, interest articulation, and political socialization are treated.  Emphasis will be placed on the issues of policymaking, government, elections, and political parties.  The course provides a comparative analysis of different states’ political systems, including United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and China.  The class format includes lectures, discussion, team work, presentations, and audiovisual materials.  The students will be asked to produce a final research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology.  Guest speakers and field trips are planned.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS


Description

This course covers the history of international relations since 1945. The different periods of international competition will be analyzed in a global context. We will study the development of international competition from the time it was military and ideological in character to when it became primarily economic in nature. Phenomena like decolonization, local wars, political blocs, and developing societies, will be covered. The process of transition to a new, contemporary, era will be treated. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers nationalism, ethnicity, and integration in contemporary Europe, from the historical perspective.  An overview of European peoples is followed by the study of nationalism, ethnicity and ethnonationalism.  Transnational minorities and polyethnic states are examined.  Integration of ethnicities is treated in both Western and Eastern Europe.   Specific case studies are analyzed.  The class format includes lectures, discussion, team work, presentations, and audiovisual materials.  The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology.  Guest speakers and field trips are planned.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers the history and politics of modern Russia and the Soviet Union. The various eras of Soviet history will be treated and analyzed. The Soviet system and its different elements will be studied: economic, social and cultural. The development of the system and then the different phases leading to its dissolution will be analyzed. The major trends in Soviet Communist ideology will be analyzed together with Stalinism. Sovietization of Eastern Europe and the Soviet Bloc will be examined. Major political and scholarly interpretations of the Soviet system will be considered. Specific case studies will be analyzed. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

Ethnopolitics has been crucial in shaping politics and societies in recent time. It is frequently at the heart of disputes of international importance. The course covers different forms of identity politics including ethnopolitics, ethnic cleansing, and genocide, as manifested in the 20th and 21st centuries. We consider the politics of identity within the historical perspective, and also set in the international context. The program covers the Jewish Holocaust, European ethnic cleansing, and genocide including the cases of Armenia, Balkans, Ukraine, the Roma, Cambodia, Rwanda, and the Darfur region. Other specific current case studies of genocide may be analyzed. Conceptualizations, theories, and the scholarly debate related to genocide as a political phenomenon are covered in a comparative way. Investigation of genocide across regions and time periods will be combined with the review of the debate about genocide’s definition, its development in these two centuries, patterns characterizing its occurrence, and hypothesized causes (whose identification can be controversial and difficult given the long historical run-up between causal agents and eventual ethnic hostilities). Genocide is also analyzed as an international crime, together with the range of legal actions and Human Right Instruments presently addressing it. A major objective is to examine the causes of genocide and how genocide might be prevented. The class format includes lectures, discussion, team work, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to produce a research project, making extensive personal use of information and communication technology. Guest speakers and field trips are planned. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

A special course for the CARABINIERI MILITARY ACADEMY (Scuola Ufficiali Carabinieri) in Rome.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

For more than two thousand years, Jews have lived in Rome making it the oldest Jewish community in Europe. Traces of Jewish heritage are entrenched throughout the city from the ancient settlement of Ostia Antica to the modern Great Synagogue on the banks of the Tiber. From the ruins of the historic Roman Ghetto to the contemporary districts where today’s vibrant 18,000 strong Jewish population lives. This course concentrates on the origins, history, and changing cultural conditions of Jewish life in Rome and on the particular characteristics of the Roman Jewish experience.  Attending many classes and discussions directly on site, you’ll visit the major monuments of historic and contemporary Jewish life in the city in order to retrace the birth and subsequent evolution of the community, its 400 years of Ghetto life, the emancipation of the late 19th century, the fascist racial laws of the 1930s, and the mass deportation under Nazi rule. We will probe and analyze the distinctive language, ethnicity, traditions and identity of this Romanim community, as it is known, and its complex relationship with its Christian neighbors, the Papacy and the Italian state.


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course examines the political history of Europe in addition to its social and economic development. The course covers the period from 1878 to 1945. Attention will be paid to the history of ideas and cultural development. Imperialism and the intellectual crisis of the late 1800s will be treated. Emphasis will be put on WWI, in particular Interbellum Europe, and WWII. Communist and Fascist regimes will be covered. Ethnic Nationalism and ethnopolitics will be addressed. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers the development of European History from the post-war era to the present. Historical development based on chronological structure will be studied together with economic, social, and political phenomena. Attention will be given to ideology, and ethnicity. The Cold War, Communist Europe, and the European Union will be studied. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

Course Description: This dynamic course provides you with a thoroughly interactive introduction to life and culture in modern Italy, exploring a range of contemporary themes that characterize and define this country & its people. Both in the classroom and out, you will learn by analyzing and evaluating your surroundings and broad social issues in politics, gender, class and religion, trends in fashion and culture, fast (& slow) food, and Italian values. You may apply your growing knowledge of this country to case studies of specific themes such as contraception, abortion, divorce, organized crime, tensions between north and south, and the Italian attitude to volunteering and civil society, to immigration, to humanitarian efforts, to the environment, or to international security.  You may employ a range of active, independent modes of engagement and research such as keeping a journal of your experiences or running in a city-wide 'treasure-hunt' project tracking down cultural "signs." To synthesize and communicate your discoveries about Italian culture, this class will collaborate on a collective writing project resulting in, for instance, a guidebook - in booklet or electronic form - devoted to an Italian destination and to be shared with family, friends, and future study-abroad students. This course is taught in Italian and you'll be encouraged to extend your language skills, and to explore your host society. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course aims to analyze the Italian mafia through two different and strictly related perspectives: one political and historical, and the other one sociological. We will study the history of the Mafia since the Italian national unity till today.  Mafia‖ is one of a long list of words – like ―pizza‖, ―spaghetti‖ and ―opera‖ – that Italian has given to many other languages across the world. It is commonly applied to criminals far beyond Sicily and the United States, which are the places where the mafia in the strict sense is based. ―Mafia‖ has become an umbrella label for whole world panoply of gangs – Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Chechen, Albanian, Turkish, and so on – that have little or nothing to do with the Sicilian original.  This course is a social history of the mafia in Sicily. Some of the most famous American Mafiosi, men like Lucky Luciano and Al Capone, also will be taken into consideration because the history of the Sicilian mafia cannot be understood without telling the story of the American mafia to which it gave birth. It is only when viewed from the coast of a small, triangular island in the Mediterranean that the history of the mafia in the USA, at least in early stages, can egin to make sense.  However, the history of the mafia cannot just be about the mafia, about the deeds of men of honor. Before Falcone and Borsellino, many other people died fighting the mafia. Some of them are characters in the drama. The mafia’s story also embraces the people who, for an assortment of motives ranging from rational fear, through political cynicism, to downright complicity, have favored the organization’s cause.  You will be guided to critically analyze the material discussed in class and the assigned readings. The history of the Italian mafia, both if analyzed from a micro or macro perspective, presents social, historical and cultural dynamics that are related and need to be understood deeply. It is therefore fundamental that you reflect on these aspects and become able to connect all the information learned, and analyze it with a critical perspective. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers political change in the modern history of Italy to the present. A historical introduction will be provided. Economic, social, and cultural aspects will be treated. The history of political theories, political movements, and ideologies will be covered. Fascism and the post-Fascist era will be analyzed. Investigation will focus on transitional phenomena and elements. Particular attention will be dedicated to contemporary Italy. Major political and scholarly interpretations of the periods and topics covered will be considered. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course covers Italian history from the Congress of Vienna to World War I. The development of Risorgimento and the creation of the new Kingdom will be studied. Main emphasis will be on political movements: liberalism, nationalism and socialism. The history of Italian economy and society will be treated, including the history of culture and ideas. The class format will include lectures, discussion, presentations, and audiovisual materials. The students will be asked to do a small research project, utilizing information technology. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The course is an active program of learning, acquaintance, and experiencing the Italian culture, language, and realities. This is a course tailored for professional graduate students coming from abroad to Italy for the first time. Italian language skills are reviewed and optimized. A general coverage of Italian culture is accompanied by the treatment of specific economic and professional issues. The students are driven to have a “hands on” approach to a personal experience of Italy. Class format includes lectures, discussion, presentations, and field trips. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This dynamic course provides you with a thoroughly interactive introduction to life and culture in Italy, exploring a range of issues that characterize the country and its people. Our emphasis will be on helping you reach informed opinions about many traits of Italian culture and society, as well as understand some aspects in greater depth. Many site excursions are planned, in addition to field research, carried out individually or in groups.  The city of Rome – its public buildings, squares, churches, university and schools, its markets, it‟s artisans‟ shops, its boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops, its sports-venues, etc. – these will be your primary research site. You will be challenged to develop presentations by which to communicate your findings to the rest of the class.  This course will introduce you to an overview of specific events, trends, and phenomena which have shaped contemporary Italy. Information and analysis will be provided on such topics as localism/regionalism, language, social and political cultures, the Church, gender issues, organized crime, deviance, cinema, mass media, and global trends.  Students will be thoroughly exposed to their host city, Rome, through outings to relevant sites like markets, places of religious worship, and immigrant communities. An important part of your learning will consist in documenting your knowledge and discussing your experiences with other students on a course blog, engaging in and presenting your own field research through conducting surveys and polls, participating actively in student-led discussions and debates, and sharing your own experiences while traveling throughout Italy. Guest speakers will provide personal views of life in Italy and Rome. You'll also attend film screenings which will illustrate key social, economic, and political issues in the development of postwar Italy. The course also comprises a trip to Siena (to experience firsthand the Contrada) and a special class visit to a prison in the Tuscan city of Volterra to discuss the issues of Law and Order in Italy. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

The history of Italian cinema and Italian society as represented in film. Post-war Italian cinema offers a valuable range of films to study. Italian cinema within the context of world cinema to gain an understanding of realism as an aesthetic convention as well as insight into Italian culture and ways of thinking.  The main focus of the course will be on the most significant phases of Italian cinema in connection with the historical and social context of the country. From the early age of cinema until the contemporary period, the course will explore a changing Italian society as it appears filtered through the cinematic eye. Analyzing the works of De Sica, Rossellini, Fellini, Antonioni, together with the films of less known directors, it will be possible to see the peculiar style of Italian cinema, its identity and its relation with the international industry of entertainment. In addition, the course will introduce interesting aspects of Italian culture, such as the concept of family or the importance of beauty. Comedies and dramas will be the instruments for talking about the role of women or love in the society. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Description

This course provides you with a comprehensive survey of politics and political change in modern Italy, and will greatly help you develop your skills in critical thinking and comparative analysis. Employing a variety of lectures, site visits, classroom discussions, debates, guest lectures and your own independent research projects, you'll learn about the political theories, movements and events that have affected the course of this nation's development. Fascism, the reconstruction of Italy after the war, the implications of the cold war for the shape of domestic politics, the shifting structure of modern Italian political movements, the party system, and the political ideologies and theories all continue to shape change. An additional, comparative function of this course will be a correlation of political institutions in Europe and those in the United States, urging you to reflect upon your own political environment.  To bring these topics alive in both an animated and constructive fashion, and to provide you with the skills in the areas of collaborative learning, oral debate and presentation, you will be holding simulated debates on social issues, and making independent and team presentations with audiovisual and electronic materials. We will also be viewing selected movies during the course, analyzing the viewpoints of Italian film-makers as social commentators.  To complement your learning we will be using the city of Rome, the nation's political capital, as a constant resource to observe and analyze Italian politics in real life situations, including visits to the chambers of the Italian Parliament and Senate, and we will hear presentations delivered by guest speakers from the Italian political scene. 


Gallery

WORK IN PROGRESS

Materials

Please, insert the password to show the materials of this course.


Art for Friends


Art for Friends


Art for Friends


Images and Videos

Adm
Menu Biography Courses Students Guest Speakers Conferences Consulting Photo Publications Teaching & Research Education Field Trips Library & Archives Links Gallery Art for Friends Contact Curriculum Vitae Field TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsField TripsCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesCoursesArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsArt For FriendsGallery