Ideally, this course would have no description. The course theme is openness, which does not warrant a closed description.

A truly open course would perhaps be a discussion between equals, with no predetermined framework, premises or pre-set aim. But this hypothetical course is fraught with problems from the outset: is equality in and of itself a (western) utopian ideal? Who would start the discussion? Who would lead the discussion if it is to become a truly open one?

Openness can only arise within some kind of structuring principle, which can be more or less subjective, more or less arbitrary. In this case: very subjective and quite arbitrary, since we will be using a lot of material from Italo Calvino, the versatile writer on which I wrote a monograph.

Different disciplines, places and institutions have tried to come up with ways of achieving openness, of wrestling themselves free from the bonds of tradition, subjectivity, elitism or human boundaries.

This course is as open as possible; an exploration of these different attempts to achieve freedom through a redrawing of rules and boundaries within and between artistic and scientific disciplines. 

Timetable

We now expect that all lectures can take place on-campus. In case the situation changes, you will be notified. You can find the timetable on Datanose.

Registration

Registration is open for second-year or third-year Bachelor's students participating in an Honours programme. Between 30 November 10 am and 3 December 11 pm, you can register by completing the online registration form that will appear on Honoursmodules IIS. Placement is random and students will hear within two weeks for which course(s) they are registered.

Please note: There is no guarantee for placement if you register after December 3, so make sure you register on time. For questions about registration, please contact us at Honours-iis@uva.nl.

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