“Wicked problems” demand answers and resist remedies. They loom large, yet cannot be located or pinned down. “Diabolical dilemmas” force us to make repugnant choices in favor of lesser evils. Examples of both include global warming, pandemics, terrorism, migration, healthcare, corruption, poverty, and human trafficking. After orienting ourselves in the relevant topology and terminology, we will explore how communities past and present, near and far, successfully tame wicked problems and navigate diabolical dilemmas, through creative ideas, innovative programs, participatory experimentation, and collaborative public action. Weekly readings, discussion posts, collaborative activities, presentations, and projects.
Learning Outcomes:
Delivery Method: Hybrid in-person and remote, with faculty remote
Prerequisites:Please email the instructor (escully@bennington.edu) with a brief statement of interest, including information about prior course work, relevant FWT experiences, and intended Plan concentration areas.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
M/Th 1:40PM-5:20PM (2nd seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 18
Course Frequency: Every 2-3 years
Categories: Advancement of Public Action , All courses , History , Politics , SCT
Tags: design , ethics , history , problem solving , public policy