POL329 Imagining “America”: Rebellious Political Thought in the United States

POL329 Imagining “America”: Rebellious Political Thought in the United States (POL329B - Spring)

Credits: 15
Semester: 2

Assessment: Item 1: 25% Short Essay Item 2: 75% Long Essay

Module Convenor: Dr Joseph Hoover

This module examines critical traditions in American political thought , with specific authors and themes varying from year to year. Central themes will include the promise and betrayal of freedom from the founding of the nation to the present day, the tension between radical individualism and contested notions of community, and the constant struggle to maintain faith in the possibilities of democratic government and culture. The module will focus on close reading of primary texts, while also incorporating reflections on American literature, music, and film.