Students majoring in history at the lower division level concentrate on learning how to use the skills of critical thinking to identify basic historical themes, but more importantly to analyze the nature in which these themes interact within any given society to determine its values, legitimize its authority, and perpetuate its existence. Thus the major is appropriate for students who wish to acquire an understanding of the ideas that have shaped the culture of this country, or for students who wish to transcend their own cultural limits and, by a study of other societies in other ages, to open their eyes to the diversity of the human environment. History majors develop an ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing, and the capacity to think clearly and analytically. Therefore, students anticipating careers in law, education, communications, and governmental affairs may find the history major especially beneficial.