News & Events

Metaphysics has never had a “fun” reputation. Many people—if they’ve even heard of the M-word— tend to associate it with woozy, abstract lectures about time and space. But with the arrival of Philosophy Professor and new Department Chair Sara Bernstein and Philosophy Professor Daniel Nolan, two internationally respected experts in metaphysics, the UC Santa Cruz Philosophy Department is bolstering its strengths in this realm and setting out to change perceptions.

This year’s conference,  US India: Normalization or Reset?, examines how the two countries can review their priorities and either restore normalcy or redefine the relationship for a multipolar world.

For as long as she can remember, Assistant Professor of Languages and Applied Linguistics Ariel Chan has lived her life in two languages. Now one of three new Humanities faculty hires at UC Santa Cruz, Chan is challenging outdated assumptions about bilingualism through her work at the intersection of psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, and neuroscience.

This spring quarter, UC Santa Cruz Humanities students immersed themselves in the story of three Hawaiian princes who introduced surfing to the United States in the late 19th century, using Santa Cruz to launch a sport that became a cultural phenomenon.

The ten-week public history course, taught by UC Santa Cruz Humanities Dean and History Professor Jasmine Alinder, brought students face-to-face with the complexities of community storytelling, colonial legacies, and cultural continuity

The uncomfortably famous satirical songwriter taught as a Cowell College fellow from 1972 to 2001

This summer’s edition of The Dickens Universe – a unique cultural event that brings together scholars, teachers, students, and members of the general public for a week of stimulating discussion and festive social activity – will give Dickens admirers a chance to rediscover The Old Curiosity Shop.

The Humanities Institute at UC Santa Cruz celebrated its 25th anniversary with a lively Night at the Museum event at the MAH, featuring speculative fiction projects, public scholarship, and a special commendation from State Assemblymember Gail Pellerin.

Highlighting a handful of graduates who are ready to make a difference

Michael Cowan joined UC Santa Cruz in 1969, just four years after the university opened, bringing with him a passion for American studies, literature, and the arts.