An introduction to Italy from a sociological, cultural, political viewpoint, in order to gain an overview of the country with its considerable disparities and the social and cultural changes that Italy has undergone since the end of WWII. Topics include, but are not limited to, Italy's major institutions, including government (national and European), education, religion and family. Italy's economy, its growing immigrant population, its north/south divide, crime and the tradition of food and drink will also be examined. Students will participate in a service-learning project during the second half of the semester.