An intensive two-week programme in which you will be introduced to Dutch culture and identity by scholars and guest lecturers. We aim to lay a solid foundation of knowledge of present-day Dutch society and its recent history.
This course focuses on two central themes: Society (1) and Contemporary Issues (2).
Theme 1: Society – Lecturers will present the most characteristic institutions and arrangements of Dutch society from a historical perspective. These include elements of Dutch political culture, such as the welfare state and the 'polder model' of political decision-making, but also the actual lay-out of the country. For instance, one crucial feature of Dutch culture is water management – you will learn about the function of the typical windmills that you can find all over the Netherlands.
Theme 2: Contemporary Issues – We will explore public debates in present-day society, dealing with topics like integration and migration, the recent energy crisis, and the Dutch colonial past. We will approach these themes from a historical perspective. In particular, the role of historical memory in these discussions will be discussed.
The programme is open to students from all disciplines. This is a course in the area of humanities / social sciences.
This course introduces participants to the history, society and culture of the Netherlands. By studying Dutch society and culture in an international context, students will be offered an incentive to reflect from a new perspective on their own culture and society in an international setting.
A minimum of: 7 lectures (120 minutes); 4 seminars (90 minutes); 1 day excursion; 1 exam; 1 certificate ceremony.
The housing costs do not include a Utrecht Summer School sleeping bag. This is a separate product on the invoice. If you wish to bring your own bedding, please deselect or remove the sleeping bag from your order.