Description:
What did Americans once believe about God, nature, and human nature—and how did those beliefs change over time? This discussion-based course explores the evolving ideas that shaped Euro-American thought from the colonial period through the modern era. Through close reading and conversation, participants will examine brief texts from key intellectual movements, including American Puritanism, the Enlightenment, Romanticism, Darwinism, and Modernism. Readings will feature influential voices such as John Winthrop, Benjamin Franklin, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and others, offering insight into how Americans have understood the world, their place within it, and themselves. Together, we will consider how these shifting perspectives continue to influence contemporary debates about belief, science, culture, and human meaning.
Dr. Schmidt (Ph.D. History, University of Illinois, 1980) taught History courses at WSU for 34 years, retiring in 2019. He taught an upper-division course on American Intellectual and Cultural History every third semester.
Bring to Class:
LOCATION: On Winona campus
SENIOR UNIVERSITY CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY
If a class must be canceled due to insufficient enrollment, inclement weather, or emergency circumstances, you will be notified as soon as possible and receive a full refund.
You may withdraw from a class and receive a full refund if we receive your withdrawal and refund request in writing, via email, mail or in person, at least five full business days before the first class date. Please note: if you pay by check, you will need to complete a W9 form to receive a refund by check from Winona State University. Credit Card payments will be refunded within 3-5 business days.
Any questions, please get in touch with the WSU Retiree Center at 507-457-5565.
Registration Cutoff Date:
10/13/2026
Dates & Times:
10/14/2026 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Arranged
10/21/2026 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Arranged
10/28/2026 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Arranged
11/4/2026 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Arranged
11/18/2026 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Arranged
