This course will explore three core concepts of individualism, family values, and social responsibilities, including the individual self's emotional well-being, ethical and socially responsible citizenship, and the possibility of a fulfilled life. Centering around the self's relationship with family and the society, the course will address the following issues as reflected in a range of readings of Western and Chinese writings, literature, film and cultural texts: conceptions of the self; universal and culturally particular aspects of ethics and human nature; different conceptions of individual emotions (romantic love in particular); as well as the appreciation of beauty and art. Students will be introduced to key concepts concerning individual morality, feelings and social responsibilities, and to the ways in which nationality, family, the society, and other affiliations have been constructed in modern narratives of identity and selfhood. This introductory humanities course aims to develop students' critical thinking and writing skills, while cultivating their moral sensibilities and abilities to become well-rounded individuals.