Courses » » Political Science 298. Experimental Courses

American Political Thought

This course will offer an introduction to significant movements in American political thinking, from pre-revolutionary theorists of the political community, to present day practitioners of American democracy. Topics include (but are not limited to) revolutionary political thought, arguments for and against the American Constitution, abolition and suffrage, political thought of the antebellum south, transcendentalism, progressivism, liberalism and conservatism. Tracing the points of departure for our contemporary political debates we’ll use the history as an excavation of the present. Contemporary political debate is full of references to the American framers of the Constitution, to the distinctness of the “American Dream” and to esteemed historical political actors, such as Madison and Lincoln. By looking at the sources of these influences, we will aim at becoming more critical, and discerning consumers of contemporary American political debate.
(Michael Illuzzi)

Peace and Conflict Resolution

In order to resolve conflicts we must understand them. In order to attain and sustain peace we must understand some of the peace research findings that social scientists and practitioners have discovered over the years. This course will provide a cross disciplinary examination of international violence and peace issues, including concepts, methods, frameworks and findings that policy makers, activists and peace researchers use as they deal with conflict and violence and strive to move toward peace. Although primarily international in focus, we will learn from those who focus on personal nonviolence, ethical issues of violence and war, conflict resolution and mediation.