PSCI 100(S) Politics and Freedom

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, if ever, seemed more powerful than it does today, as struggles waged in the name of freedom transform the landscape on several continents. But what do we mean when we want to be free? What institutions and social conditions are necessary to the achievement of political freedom? Do the claims of individual freedom conflict with those of the community? Is freedom compatible with authority? Does it, in fact, make us happy? This course confronts these questions through readings drawn from a variety of classic and contemporary sources, including works of fiction, autobiography, philosophy, history, and social science. Lectures and discussions will address such topics as slavery and liberation, education for freedom, equality and economic freedom, sexual freedom and gender politics, the rights and obligations of citizenship, and the uses and limits of state power. Requirements: midterm, final, one short essay, and participation in small group discussions. No prerequisites.

Hour: REINHARDT