Instructor: Janet Ward Schofield

Wednesdays, April 15 - 29 | 1 - 4 pm | $36 | 3 weeks

This class, taught by author and teacher Janet Ward Schofield, provides a close-up look at an extraordinary place: the remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, renowned for its sustainable environmental policies, unique culture, and holistic development philosophy called Gross National Happiness (GNH). Topics include Bhutan’s history, remarkable natural environment, Buddhist and animist religions, and education system, and how these impact the country’s culture and current functioning. Core aspects of Bhutanese identity (devotion to the monarchy, respect for authority, and deep connection to extended family and community) and gender roles and marital practices are discussed, as are current domestic issues impacting Bhutan’s future.

The many ways in which Bhutan challenges Western assumptions and ways of life are examined. Specifically, the sharp contrast between the American and Bhutanese cultures provides stimulating material for discussion. PowerPoint lectures, illustrated by vivid photos, are the primary teaching approach, supplemented by substantial time for questions and discussion. Suggested reading will be provided and is optional.

About the Instructor

Janet Ward Schofield, a prize-winning teacher and researcher with an AB, MA, and PhD from Harvard University, was a social psychologist at the University of Pittsburgh before spending a decade (2009-2019) helping to establish and develop Bhutan’s first private college. Her research has been featured on radio and TV in the US, Europe, and Bhutan, and she has given invited talks on five continents. Her new book, Discovering Bhutan, describes Bhutan’s rich environment and culture, as well as the adventures she and her husband had there, as two of the few Americans ever allowed to live and work there for so long.

Register Here

To make our programs accessible to all, we are happy to assist anyone with a financial need. Please contact Julia.Price@boulderjcc.org.