What We Do
The program is based on the belief that by studying the humanities, participants acquire the cultural capital, conceptual skills, and appreciation for reasoned discourse necessary to improve their societal situation. Clemente students receive 110 hours of instruction in five humanistic disciplines and explore the great works of literature, art history, moral philosophy, and American history. Instruction in critical thinking and writing is also offered.
From Our Founder
"The humanities are a foundation for getting along in the world, for thinking, for learning to reflect on the world instead of just reacting to whatever force is turned against you. I think the humanities are one of the ways to become political..."
— Earl Shorris, Clemente Course founder, from Riches for the Poor
Our Students in Their Own Words
"People need to be inspired. People need an avenue. The Clemente Course exposes us to things that we can hold on to and remember and that we can pass on and enrich our own lives. It's something beyond getting six credits. It's something that exposes us to things that can help us in other ways."
