"Detroit" is a symbol, a watchword, even a punchline. Detroit is also a real place where millions of people live ordinary lives. For those of us who are part of Wayne State University, it is our home, and it is worthy of our attention. In this course we will seek deeper understanding of Detroit and, in the process, learn tools of analysis that will allow you to make sense of any complex human system.

You will know your city. You will develop the skills necessary to understand how and why it has changed, and how you can play an active role in changing it for the better. You can then use those skills in Detroit or anywhere else.