The end of the cold war ushered in an era of wild optimism about a more peaceful, democratic world. This alleged global democratization has often been accounted for in terms of the re-emergence of civil society, both domestic and international. The consensus ceases, however, as we examine the concepts of civil society that are used for various purposes. Some imagine laissez faire markets, while others, bowling leagues. Some find its archetype in literary salons of the Enlightenment era, while others, in trade unions. For some, it is a civic, educational site for (lost) civility or trust, while for others, it is an arena for rational dialogue and interest coordination. There seems to be no one thing to be called civil society. This seminar surveys various "modes" of civil society, while re-evaluating the contemporary enthusiasm for civil society. Readings will be selected from both classic and contemporary theoretical sources. Format: seminar. Requirements: one presentation and three short 6- to 7-page essays. Prerequisite: Political Science 232-Modern Political Thought, or equivalent. Enrollment limit: 24 (expected: 24). Political Theory Subfield