[Little Pig]

Actually, from an academic standpoint, some of those courses could be very enlightening if taught right. The Harry Potter one and the one on invented languages in particular. Sure, the example subject material is a bit mainstream, but the underlying theme is worth exploring. With the HP course, they are looking at the implication s of “history is written by the winner”, and the language course hopefully explores how languages develop.

[AnotherUnixGeek]

Actually, from an academic standpoint, some of those courses could be very enlightening if taught right. The Harry Potter one and the one on invented languages in particular.

Agree - also, #7 could be an interesting introduction to basic physics for students in non-science/engineering majors. Actually, any of these courses could be acceptable electives, given certain majors. And 'acceptable' for me would be defined by whether or not the student's schedule is primarily filled with such courses and whether or not I'm expected to pay for it.

Get the basics of a useful, employable major done and I don't see a problem with students filling in the corners of their schedules with a few offbeat electives that might expose them to interesting new concepts - that's part of what college is supposed to be for.

[NonValueAdded]

Concur. The “Inventing a language...” could be very much on point depending upon the major - and the seriousness with which it was taught.

[ctdonath2]

Invented languages is fascinating. Why should something so central to humanity be left to chance and idiots (see addition of “assault weapons” to English)? Esperanto was an honest attempt. Klingon is surprisingly well done. Tolkien spent much time creating Elvish etc. with good results. A fine endeavor requiring deep understanding; why not have a course in it?

Most of those don’t sound bad. Taking an occasional fun course is good for one’s education.

[a fool in paradise]

I thought people used to go to “The Learning Annex” to take such courses.