Recognizing that most of us have few (if any) opportunities to talk — really talk — about dying, this course may be a remedy. Sensitive conversation will consume most of our time together. The instructor will invite students to suggest topics of interest before the course starts. Discussions will be framed with materials provided before each class meeting. We are likely to examine such topics as: death’s timing, quality of life, meaning and value, getting the care we prefer, aging, dementia, legacy, and our beliefs about death. TED Talks, articles, and books like “Being Mortal” may be used. The instructor’s intent is to prompt us to talk freely and meaningfully about this experience that is part of all our lives. All students will be expected to talk. Those interested in joining in these important, personal discussions need to commit to attend every one of our six meetings so that our conversations can deepen over our time together.
NOTE: Conversations in this in-person course will be deeply personal and confidential. This is best achieved, and the quality and content of discussions built upon, with consistent and reliable attendance. Students who know they will need to miss even one class should not enroll now. This course may be offered again in the future. There is no class on Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
