Course Description
Through reading classical works in political philosophy as well as contemporary sociological essays, fiction, and watching films, this class will explore the nature and dynamics of political life. We will wrestle with some of the most fundamental questions of human existence, including: what is the relationship between individual rights and state authority? What does it mean to be a citizen? What is power and who has it? Is violence compatible with democracy? How, when, and why do revolutions take place?
Although we will mostly read texts from the 19th and 20th century, throughout the course we will turn to contemporary politics in Texas as a guide for our discussions and students will be asked to apply concepts from the readings to political issues playing out around us.
Course Format, Requirements, and Grading
The requirements of the course and related grading scheme are as follows:
Class Presentations and Participation: 30%
Research Paper: 30%
Mid Term Exam: 20%
Final Exam: 20%
Readings
Arendt, The Origins of Totalitarianism (Harcourt, 1973 Edition)
Erikson, Wayward Puritans (Prentice Hall, 2004 Edition)
Fanon, Wretched of the Earth (Grove Press, 1963 Edition)
Freud, Civilization and Its Discontents (Norton, 2010 Edition)
Orwell, Animal Farm (Signet, 1996 Edition)
Rousseau, The Basic Political Writings (Hackett, 2nd revised Edition 2012)
* All other readings will be available online on our course website*