POLS 212-01, American Political Thought, Spring 2008

Abstract

This course will provide an overview of the origin and nature of American political thought. We will focus our attention especially on the American Founding and Civil War; it was during these signal periods in American history that the principles which underlie and give shape to our regime and way of life were most clearly and forcefully articulated, debated, and fought for. Our aim will be to develop a critical appreciation of the American regime and the American way of life, both their strengths and their weaknesses. Among the questions we will address are: What is the character of American democracy? What is the understanding of human nature, of equality, of liberty that underlies and informs American democracy? Is there such a thing as an American way of life? If so, what is it? Is it a good way of life?