教學大綱 Syllabus

每周課程進度與作業要求 Course Schedule & Requirements

教學週次Course Week	彈性補充教學週次Flexible Supplemental Instruction Week	彈性補充教學類別Flexible Supplemental Instruction Type
16+2週16+2 weeks	第 15 週 Week 15	參與校內外課程相關學習活動或社會服務Participation in on-campus or off-campus learning activities or community service related to the course
	第 16 週 Week 16	參與校內外課程相關學習活動或社會服務Participation in on-campus or off-campus learning activities or community service related to the course

 

韌命之路：選讀經典、探索永續

The Way of Resilience: Exploring the Sustainable Significance of Resilient Classics

 

Week 1-2: Foundations of Resilience in Classics

The course will start with a brief overview of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relevance to addressing global challenges, including those related to the environment, society, and economy. What is the importance of resilience in achieving these goals?

Literary Analysis and SDGs: Connect the themes of resilience in the selected readings (The Origin of Species, The Metamorphosis, and Homo Deus) to specific SDGs. Discuss how the concepts of adaptation, survival, and societal challenges presented in these works relate to broader sustainability objectives.

Reading and discussion: "The Origin of Species" (Ch. 4) by Charles Darwin, "The Metamorphosis" (Part 2) by Franz Kafka, and “Homo Deus” (The Anthropocene) by Yuval Noah Harari  

1. "The Origin of Species" by Charles Darwin:

   - Connection to Resilience: Darwin's theory of evolution explores the concept of adaptation and survival of the fittest, which can be seen as a form of resilience in the natural world.

   - For example: Chapter 4 - "Natural Selection; or the Survival of the Fittest": This chapter delves into the core concept of natural selection, emphasizing the role of adaptation and resilience in the evolutionary process.

2. "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka:

   - Connection to Resilience: The protagonist, Gregor Samsa, undergoes a profound and unexpected transformation. The story can be seen as an exploration of resilience in the face of drastic changes and challenges.

   - Suggested Chapter: Part 2: This section of the novella explores Gregor's attempts to adapt to his new form and the challenges he faces. It provides insights into the resilience required when confronted with the unexpected.

3. "Homo Deus" by Yuval Noah Harari:

   - Connection to Resilience: Harari explores the future of humanity, discussing how technological advancements may shape our species. Resilience in this context can be linked to how societies adapt to and navigate the challenges posed by these changes.

   - Suggested Reading: “The Anthropocene” in Homo Deus

These suggested chapters offer a starting point to explore the themes of resilience within the broader contexts of evolution, personal transformation, and societal adaptation. In the Anthropocene, humans have become powerful agents of change on a global scale. Understanding and responding to the consequences of these changes require resilience at individual, societal, and ecological levels.

 

Week 3-4: Economic and Organizational Resilience

Reading: "The Wealth of Nations" (Chapter 2 of Book IV) by Adam Smith.

Guest Speaker: Professor Jonathan Thomas, Economics, The University of Edinburgh. "The Invisible Hand in Turbulent Times: Adam Smith's Legacy and Resilience"

Join Jonathan Thomas from the University of Edinburgh as he explores the enduring relevance of Adam Smith's economic theories in the face of challenges. This engaging lecture will delve into Smith's "Wealth of Nations" and examine how his concept of the invisible hand operates in societies. Professor Thomas will talk about the extent to which the “invisible hand” offers resilience to individuals (basically about insurance markets); and talk about whether it can fail disastrously (Great Depression, Financial Crisis etc.) Through a lens from an economist, we will unravel the complexities of economic resilience, adaptive strategies, and the human capacity to navigate adversity. Discover how Smith's ideas continue to shape our understanding of economic resilience in times of crisis.

Key Discussion Points: Individual/specialisation/public/free/the invisible hand

Adam Smith's Economic Philosophy: An overview of Smith's seminal work, "Wealth of Nations."  

“He generally, indeed, neither intends to promote the public interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it. By preferring the support of domestic to that of foreign industry, he intends only his own security; and by directing that industry in such a manner as its produce may be of the greatest value, he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention. Nor is it always the worse for the society that it was no part of it.” (II, Book IV)

Activity: Monopoly game play, reflection and analysis of economic resilience and crisis management. Have each group prepare a short presentation on your Monopoly gameplay experience; to discuss the economic decisions you made, challenges you faced, and how you demonstrated resilience in the game.

 

Week 5-6: Urban and Community Resilience

Reading: The Death and Life of Great American Cities (Part one: THE PECULIAR NATURE OF CITIES – 2. "The Uses of Sidewalks: Safety") by Jane Jacobs.

Guest Speaker: Prof. Kota Kawasaki, Fukushima University. “Revitalization from Nuclear Disaster in Fukushima, Japan.”  

Chapter 3 of The Death and Life of Great American Cities addresses the fundamental aspects of urban life, community interactions, and safety, which are crucial components of urban and community resilience. It explores how the design and use of public spaces, such as sidewalks, contribute to the safety and vitality of a city. Understanding the dynamics of urban spaces is essential when considering resilience and community development.

“A city sidewalk by itself is nothing. It is an abstraction… …Think of a city and what comes to mind? Its streets. If a city's streets look interesting, the city looks interesting; if they look dull, the city looks dull.”

“A city street equipped to handle strangers, and to make a safety asset, in itself, out of the presence of strangers, as the streets of successful city neighborhoods always do, must have three main qualities:…”

Activities:

1. Reading Analysis and Discussion:

   - Students can analyse key concepts about sidewalks and discuss how Jacobs' observations relate to urban resilience and community development.

   - Explore the role of sidewalks and public spaces in fostering community connections and resilience.

 

2. Case Study Discussion - Fukushima, Japan:

   - Given the guest speaker's expertise in revitalization from the very sad nuclear disaster in Fukushima, connect Jacobs' principles to the case of Fukushima.

   - Discuss how urban planning and community engagement contribute to resilience in the aftermath of a disaster.

3. Field Observation or Virtual Tour:

   - conduct a field observation or a virtual tour of a local urban area.

   - Focus on identifying elements mentioned by Jacobs, such as the uses of sidewalks and safety, and relate them to the concepts of resilience and community development.

4. Group Project - Urban Resilience Strategies:

   - Divide students into groups and assign each group a real or hypothetical urban setting.

   - Task them with developing a set of urban resilience strategies based on Jacobs' principles and incorporating insights from the Fukushima case study.

By combining the reading of Jane Jacobs' book, engaging with the guest speaker's expertise, and incorporating hands-on activities, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of urban and community resilience. The activities are designed to encourage critical thinking, practical application, and exploration of real-world examples.

 

Week 7-8: Resilience in Medical Sciences

Reading: "The Emperor of All Maladies" ("A Distorted Version of Our Normal Selves", Chapter 14 - "Losing the Thread", and Chapter 17 - "A Distinct Period") by Siddhartha Mukherjee.

“Cancer cells can grow faster, adapt better. They are more perfect versions of ourselves.”

Guest Speaker:  Dr. Polin Chen, Neurologist at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital "Cellular Resilience: Navigating Challenges for Brain and Body Adaptation in Medical Contexts"

1. Cellular Resilience in Neurological Disorders: Explore how cells, particularly in the brain, exhibit resilience in the face of challenges presented in the chapters. Discuss the adaptive mechanisms that cells employ to maintain normal functioning despite disturbances highlighted in the book.
2. Impact of Medical Treatments on Cellular Resilience: Address how medical interventions, as discussed in the chapters, may affect the resilience of cells, both positively and negatively. Explore the balance between treating diseases and maintaining cellular health.
3. The Brain's Response to Stress and Trauma: Discuss the neurological responses outlined in the book when the body undergoes stress, trauma, or medical treatments. Explore the concept of psychological and neurological resilience in coping with the challenges depicted in the chapters.
4. Innovations in Neurology and Cellular Resilience: Highlight advancements in brain sciences and neurology that contribute to enhancing cellular resilience. Discuss emerging technologies and treatments that offer hope in the face of complex medical conditions.
5. Challenges and Breakthroughs in Neurological Resilience: Address specific challenges presented in the book and how breakthroughs in brain sciences contribute to overcoming these challenges. Explore the complexities of maintaining cellular health in the intricate landscape of the brain.
6. Ethical Considerations in Neurological Research and Treatment: Discuss ethical implications related to neurological research and treatments, especially in the context of the challenges highlighted in the book. Explore the delicate balance between pushing scientific boundaries and ensuring patient well-being.

Activity: discussion on resilience in healthcare.

1. reflect on the challenges presented in the selected chapters.
2. explore how the principles of resilience discussed in the book apply to the medical field, particularly in neurology or other medical specialties.

 

Week 9-10: Psychological and Behavioral Resilience

Reading: "Man's Search for Meaning" (Part One - "Experiences in a Concentration Camp", and Part Two - "Logotherapy in a Nutshell") by Viktor E. Frankl.

“But there was no need to be ashamed of tears, for tears bore witness that a man had the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer.”

“An abnormal reaction to an abnormal situation is normal behaviour.”

― Viktor E. Frankl, Man's Search for Meaning

Guest Speaker: Tiffany Tu, marriage and family therapist. “When your Heart Breaks/Psychological and Behavioural Resilience: Thriving Through Adversity.”

1. weave personal or anonymized stories of individuals who faced heartbreaking experiences and emerged resilient.
2. Discuss the emotional toll of such experiences and how individuals navigated the complexities of grief, loss, or trauma.Activity:

Workshop on psychological resilience strategies:

1. Narrative Sharing:

Begin the workshop with a storytelling session, where participants share their own or fictionalized stories of heartbreaking experiences. Encourage openness and vulnerability, emphasizing the power of sharing stories to connect and heal.

2. Interactive Discussion: Facilitate an interactive discussion on how heartbreaking experiences impact psychological well-being and resilience. Encourage participants to reflect on the themes presented in the readings and Tiffany's talk in the context of the shared narratives.
3. Resilience Toolkit Exercise: Conduct a resilience toolkit exercise where participants identify and discuss practical strategies presented in the readings and Tiffany's talk that can be applied to navigate heartbreak.
4. Creative Expression: Introduce a creative expression element, such as art, writing, or music, to allow participants to express their emotions and reflections on resilience. This can serve as a therapeutic outlet and enhance the overall impact of the workshop.
5. Group Reflection and Support: Conclude the workshop with a group reflection session, emphasizing mutual support and understanding.
6. Invite participants to discuss how the workshop has influenced their perspectives on psychological resilience and its application in their lives.

 

Week 11-12: Interdisciplinary/Intercultural Perspectives on Resilience

Reading: Guns, Germs, and Steel ("From Egalitarian to Kleptocracy, "Yali's People", “How China became Chinese” or student’s own choice) by Jared Diamond.

“Thanks to the achievements of East Asia's first farmers, China became Chinese.”

Activity: Interdisciplinary discussion on global and societal resilience for international students.

1. Group Discussions: Discuss how geographic factors, societal structures, and historical events contribute to the resilience or challenges faced by different regions.
2. Case Studies: Case studies that align with the themes in the book; discussing the unique challenges and resilience factors relevant to the chosen region.
3. Panel Discussion: Each speaker offers interdisciplinary insights into global resilience, considering historical, geographical, and societal perspectives.
4. Cultural Exchange: Students share personal experiences related to resilience in their home countries; discussions on how cultural factors contribute to the resilience of societies.
5. Role-Playing: Students take on the roles of different societies and navigate challenges based on the book's themes. Debrief the activity by discussing the strategies employed and the resilience demonstrated by each "society."

Week 13-14: Addressing Modern Challenges

Reading: The Sixth Extinction (Chapter 1 - "The Sixth Extinction", Chapter 10 - "The Thing with Feathers", and Chapter 13 - "The New Pangaea" or your own choice) by Elizabeth Kolbert.

“Though it might be nice to imagine there once was a time when man lived in harmony with nature, it’s not clear that he ever really did.”

― Elizabeth Kolbert, The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History

Guest Speaker: Yahn-Jauh Su, Academic technician, Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University "Biodiversity and Resilience: Navigating Modern Environmental Challenges"

Activity: Debate on environmental challenges and resilience. Debate Preparation:

1. Divide students into groups and assign each group a specific environmental challenge discussed in "The Sixth Extinction."
2. Assign roles, such as scientists, policymakers, and environmental activists, to students within each group. each group presents their arguments, counterarguments, and potential solutions.
3. Encourage evidence-based arguments and critical thinking.
4. Allow the rest of the class to actively engage by asking questions, offering counterarguments, and participating in a post-debate discussion.

 

Examples of debate topics include:

1. The role of human activities in the current mass extinction.
2. The effectiveness of conservation efforts in preserving biodiversity.
3. Strategies for building resilience in ecosystems facing environmental challenges.

 

Reflection and Synthesis: consider how the concepts discussed in "The Sixth Extinction" align with the arguments presented during the debate; synthesize their understanding of modern environmental challenges and the potential for resilience.

 

Week 15-16: Resilience in Religious and Philosophical Texts

Reading: Selections from the Bible, Quran, Buddhist scriptures.

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4, New International Version)

"And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient." (Quran 2:155)

The Four Noble Truths: 1. Suffering exists. 苦2. There is a cause of suffering. 集3. There is an end to suffering. 滅 4. In order to end suffering, follow the eightfold path. 道 The foundational teaching in Buddhism acknowledges the existence of suffering (dukkha) and emphasizes the path to the cessation of suffering. Understanding suffering and the path to its end involves developing resilience and the ability to navigate life's challenges.

“There is no ignorance, and so no annihilation of no ignorance, and there is even no decay and death, and so no extinction of decay and death.” (The Heart Sutra)

The Heart Sutra delves into the nature of reality and the concept of emptiness. Understanding the emptiness of inherent existence can lead to a profound shift in perspective, fostering resilience by reducing attachment to fleeting experiences.

Activity: attend a church (with English) service, listen to a sermon, and analyse the content from the perspective of resilience. If capable, compare it with other religions based on what you read.

 

Week 17-18: Culmination and Student Projects

Engage your creativity by crafting and presenting projects that reflect your unique insights and reflections on the course material. This is an opportunity to express your understanding of resilience and global sustainability in a way that resonates with you. Whether it's a presentation, artwork, multimedia project, or any other innovative form, let your creativity flow as you wrap up the course in style. Your projects will not only showcase your learning journey but will also contribute to the collective wisdom of the class. Get ready to inspire and be inspired as we celebrate the culmination of our exploration into the way of resilience.

■Podcast Series:

Create a series of podcast episodes discussing key concepts of resilience and how they relate to global sustainability. Invite guest speakers or integrate interviews to add depth to your discussions.

■TED Talks:

Develop and deliver a TED-style talk on a specific aspect of resilience and its interconnectedness with global sustainability. Use visuals, storytelling, and compelling narratives to engage your audience.

■Novel or Short Story:

Craft a fictional story or novel that weaves themes of resilience and sustainability into its narrative. Explore characters and scenarios that embody these concepts and showcase their impact on a broader scale.

■Art Exhibition:

Curate an art exhibition featuring paintings, drawings, or sculptures that visually represent the course's themes. Each piece can tell a unique story about resilience and its role in fostering global sustainability.

■Original Song or Music Album:

Compose and perform an original song or a collection of songs that capture the spirit of resilience and sustainability. Music has the power to convey emotions and messages effectively.

■Documentary Film:

Produce a short documentary film exploring real-world examples of resilience contributing to global sustainability. Incorporate interviews, footage, and compelling narratives to convey your message.

■Interactive Website or Blog:

Design an interactive website or blog that serves as a hub for exploring resilience and sustainability. Use multimedia elements, infographics, and interactive features to engage your audience.

■Photography Exhibition:

Create a photography exhibition showcasing powerful images that represent resilience in various contexts globally. Each photograph can be accompanied by a caption explaining its significance.

■Poetry Anthology:

Compile a collection of poems that delve into the themes of resilience, sustainability, and the interconnectedness of humanity. Poetry can offer a unique and expressive way to convey complex ideas.

■Innovative Workshop or Simulation:

Design and conduct an interactive workshop or simulation that allows participants to experience and understand resilience and sustainability in a hands-on way. This could involve group activities, discussions, and problem-solving scenarios.

The key is to choose a format that aligns with your strengths and interests, allowing you to convey your understanding of the course material in a way that feels authentic and engaging.