This course examines the unique nature of culture and its role in the determination of human behavior. It also explores the relationship of kinship, political, economic, religious, and other institutions within cultural systems, with a particular emphasis upon the operation of these institutions in non-Western societies. This Honors course fosters high-achieving students' growth towards learning outcomes such as: critical reading and artistic literacy; forming judgments based on evidence; clear, persuasive research writing; oral presentation; and articulate reflection on personal growth. Honors courses are more likely to utilize student-driven active learning, emphasizing exploration and discovery, rather than the acquisition of specific knowledge; faculty might provide projects with no pre-determined conclusion, but with real-world application.