2010 Spring POLSCI 126-01
Bulletin Course Description Classic theorists, such as Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Tocqueville, Madison, and Marx, and contemporary theories of liberal democracy. Attention to the historical setting, the normative philosophical presuppositions, and the ethical and policy implications of the theories. Instructor: Grant or Spragens
(Instructor named in bulletin description above may not be current. For current instructor, see listing below.)
Title LIBERAL DEMOCRACY Department POLSCI Course Number 2010 Spring 126 Section Number 01 Primary Instructor Spragens,Thomas A Prerequisites
Synopsis of course content
This course will explore some of the most important debates and issues about the proper goals and institutional practices of liberal democratic governance. We will start by considering the classic accounts of modern democratic purposes found in Locke, Rousseau, James Madison, and John Stuart Mill. Then we shall look at some of the leading theories that address these issues of democratic ideals in the contemporary world. These contemporary works will include conceptions of democracy that center around social justice, individual liberty, democratic participation, and compromise among interest groups.
Textbooks
A variety of paperback original sources from the classic and contemporary theorists mentioned above.
Assignments
About 100-150 pages per week, depending upon difficulty.
Exams
A standard 3 hour final exam and a mid-term quiz.
Term Papers
Two critical essays of about 2000 words (8 typed pages, one on issues raised in one or more of the classic theories and the other on a topic arising out of the contemporary arguments.
Grade to be based on
Equal weight to the papers (25% each) and the exams (17% mid-term and 33% final), with adjustments based upon attendance and quality of participation.
