The aim of this course is to introduce the notion of "culture" as the set of mental, socially mediated constructs employed by individuals and groups to interpret reality. From that basis, this course examines the set of conflicts currently underway both within Western societies—as seen, for instance, in the "Culture Wars" as well as in the latest US presidential election—as well as the tensions between the Western and non-Western cultures—such as those of India, China, and the Arab worlds—with an emphasis in the role played by the media and the cultural industries.