We all want to be free-at least most of us say we do. The desire for political freedom goes back to the ancient world. That desire has rarely seemed as powerful as it does now, as struggles waged in the name of freedom transform the political landscape on several continents. But what do we mean when we claim to want freedom? What institutions and social conditions make political freedom possible? Do the claims of individual freedom conflict with those of community? With equality? Is freedom compatible with authority? Does it really make us happy? Is it what we want, after all? This lecture course confronts these questions through readings drawn from a variety of classic and contemporary sources, including works of fiction, autobiography, drama, journalism, law, philosophy, and social science. Lectures and discussions will address such topics as slavery and liberation, equality and economic freedom, sexual freedom and gender politics, freedom of speech and religion, citizenship and civil disobedience, and the uses and limits of state power. Requirements: one 6- to 8-page paper, a midterm and a final exam. No prerequisites; designed for students at all levels.