The Human Experience of War

Although the demands are high in the interim course, The Human Experience of War, so too are the rewards, said Professor Joel Westra.

The course explores how combat affects those directly involved, narrowing the divide between veterans and students who have never experienced war firsthand.

Students face a rigorous reading schedule, and according to Professor Westra, many of his students have described The Human Experience of War as “the most intensive reading interim course Calvin offers.”

In preparation for one class last year, students were expected to read 168 pages of a book, 15 pages of an online article and two handouts distributed the day before.

Professor Westra’s approach combines elements of political science, sociology, anthropology, psychology, philosophy and literature and draws on both historic and modern accounts of war.

During classes, students apply their knowledge by analyzing clips from war movies and meeting with a panel of veterans near the end of course.

The reading and analysis gives students an understanding of war that one can rarely find outside of actual combat, Professor Westra said, and allows them to better connect with loved ones who have served in wars.

The course counts as a Political Science or International Relations elective and meets at 8:30 am.