- Spring 2017
Meeting Time:
MW 1:30pm - 3:20pm
Location:
PAR 305
SLN:
18652
Joint Sections:
LSJ 491 A, POL S 511 A
Instructor:
Additional Details:
In this course we will study leading contemporary works of political theory focused on justice and democracy. Among the questions we consider: What political, legal, and economic norms define a just society? What obligations of justice (if any) apply to other countries, future generations, animals, and the rest of nature? What is the meaning and nature of democracy? What civic attitudes and habits are needed to sustain democracy? How should societies respond to racial injustice? What defines a just immigration and refugee policy?
Tentative Reading List. (In most cases, we will read portions of the listed books, not the entire volume.)
John Rawls, Justice as Fairness
Robert Nozick, Anarchy, State and Utopia
Philip Pettit, Republicanism
Danielle Allen, Talking to Strangers
Martha Nussbaum, Frontiers of Justice
Tommie Shelby, "Justice, Deviance and the Dark Ghetto"
Cheryl Harris, "Whiteness as Property"
Joseph Carens, The Ethics of Immigration
David Miller, Strangers in our Midst
The seminar will be based on careful, informed discussion of the assigned readings and the issues they raise. Students are expected to participate regularly in discussion.
Written assignments: two 5-7 page essays and a 3-4 page essay in conjunction with a seminar presentation.
Catalog Description:
Topics can include, but are not limited to, analytical theory pertaining to justice, exploitation, and freedom; revolution and social changes; collective choice and action; sexuality and politics; critical theory; Marxist theory; post-structuralism. Content varies.
Department Requirements:
Political Theory Field
GE Requirements:
Social Sciences (SSc)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
January 10, 2018 - 9:32pm