Arab and American Identities in Crisis
2007 Exploration Seminar in Cyprus

Program Director: John Toews
Dates of Instruction: August 20 to September 3, 2007

Gain a better understanding of "American" and "Arab" identities and their mutual perceptions and misperceptions, during a two-week seminar in Cyprus, historically a meeting place for political players from the Mediterranean and Middle East.

Participants from the University of Washington, the American University of Cairo, and other students from the eastern Mediterranean region will live and study together in a small Cypriot village for two weeks at the end of the summer. The theme of the Seminar is the apparent tension that exists between the Arab and American worlds – especially in the wake of the events of September 11, 2001 and the American-led invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq – and its main concern is the role played by identity, and the construction of identity, in either exacerbating or moderating this tension. After introducing the notion of identity, the course goes on to explore the possible meanings of both Arab and American identity, before considering a number of ways in which these identities might be said to be in tension.

While in Cyprus, students will attend lectures, participate in discussion groups and conflict resolution exercises, watch films and go on field trips – in addition to sharing common meals and living conditions.  Several UW students from each of the previous three Cyprus Exploration Seminars spent the two weeks following the program traveling (at their own expense) to the homes of their new international acquaintances.

University of Washington participants will receive 5 credits in: Comparative History of Ideas (CHID) 477, Middle East Study Abroad (I&S).  Participants should also check with their academic advisors to determine how these credits may apply to major requirements.

Student costs:  
$1,850 Program Fee
$200 IPE Fee
Additional costs include: Round trip travel to Cyprus, course materials, some meals, health insurance and personal spending money.

Back to 2007 Exploration Seminar List of Programs