Abstract
The aim of this essay is to make explicit major assumptions, blind spots, and generalities on the basis of which a nationalist vision of German departments in the US is constructed. To offer an alternative, the essay explores the concept of “cosmopolitanism,” including its potential pitfalls, as a paradigm for countering the contemporary anxiety over the sunsetting of German departments at colleges and universities. In order to sketch the major contours of this change‐oriented vision, the history of German cultural, literary, and philosophical studies is investigated as a history of cosmopolitan engagements, including their imperialist, nationalist, and local appropriations. In conclusion, the essay examines how a critical cosmopolitan paradigm challenges us to build stronger alliances within the university and beyond, while renewing German studies in our conflict‐ridden, ecologically devastated, and technocratic world.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
