The study of history is essential. History tells us who we are by telling us who we used to be. For a student of the building arts, this historical context is absolutely essential. Without a good understanding of what has been done in the past, the present takes over and what is done now seems in too many cases like the only option. History shows us alternative approaches to universal problems and gives us a broader perspective on the human condition.
At ACBA the main history course is a two-part course called Architecture and Society. This course aims to integrate the study of architectural history with the study of the cultures and attitudes that produced those buildings. It does a student very little good to know how the Flavian Amphitheatre was built if that student doesn’t know why it was built.
In addition to Architecture and Society, ACBA requires courses on Government and Economics. Both of these classes take a broad approach to their subjects, providing students with historic examples as well as contemporary theory and practice.
All classes within this department emphasize regular discussion and debate that ideally leads to research, writing and presentation. The department also offers occasional electives that follow up on core classes or offer introduction to related fields such as sociology, psychology or anthropology.
