In Visual and Environmental Studies (VES) 176: "Visual Mathematics," students use everything from the latest multi-media software to metal compasses to discover concepts of symmetry and spiral design.

The class is taught by Senior Lecturer on Visual and Environmental Studies Arthur L. Loeb, who knew Escher personally. His teaching style is hands-on-students learn by doing, not by memorization.

Participation in the class, which was given a 4.7 overall rating in this year's CUE Guide and has no pre-requisites, requires permission of the instructor.

VES 176 meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in Sever 404.

Another elective worth shopping in the VES department is VES 157r: "American Cinema." Taught by Visiting Lecturer on Visual and Environmental Studies Charles Warren, the class is a survey of American films from Charlie Chaplin's silent pictures to the modern works of directors such as Robert Altman. Students will be taught the art of writing film analysis.

VES 157r meets once a week, on Tuesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in Carpenter Center B04, with screenings on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m.

Around the World

Taken Ec 10? Then you're eligible for Economics 1661: "Environmental and Resource Economics and Policy," taught by Kennedy School Associate Professor of Public Policy Robert N. Stavins.

Economics 1661 offers a survey of natural resource and environmental protection policies.

The course has a reputation for having a low workload, requiring only two problem sets, a midterm and a final exam.

Ec 1661 is offered Mondays and Wednesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Kennedy School.

Tastes Great

What determines the style of the clothes we wear or the art we see in museums?

Abbott Lawrence Lawell Professor of Sociology Stanley Lieberson examines current theories and evidence about the social factors that influence tastes in Sociology 150: "The Social Underpinnings of Taste."

The eclectic readings include Fred Davis' Fashion, Culture and Identity, featuring interviews with high-pro-file designers.