FROM THE EDITORS

American studies, as a world-wide academic discipline, formulates answers to questions frequently asked about the United States. What do its people think, dream and create? How have customs, values and beliefs developed? It embraces such subjects as film, literature, history, popular culture, law, politics and education.

Since its emergence as an academic field some 60 years ago, the study of the United States has become a flourishing international collaborative effort.

This issue of U.S. Society & Values explores aspects of American studies teaching, at home and abroad. Specialists from across the United States and around the globe discuss the history and current state of this vibrant and evolving field.

As an aid to readers who teach or wish to learn more about American studies, most articles include a list of teaching resources suggested by the authors -- books, articles and other materials that they have found useful in the classroom.

In addition, to facilitate dialogue, the authors' phone and fax numbers or electronic mail addresses accompany a number of selections.

The U.S. Information Agency has long been committed to the study of the United States overseas, believing firmly that increased understanding is an essential ingredient for successful relations among nations.

American studies scholars and their students overseas learn -- by examining each others' cultures -- to see their own countries anew. For as we study another culture, we are also looking at ourselves.