Political Science 275 - Building Communities

At the foundation of political societies is the definition, social ordering, and protection of communities. In this course, we will examine the conditions under which political communities either thrive or decline. This examination will consider what is at stake in how political communities are defined and how building communities is essential to the promotion of a democratic culture. Participants in the course will embark on the creative enterprise of imagining how we build more vibrant, diverse, and peaceful communities. We will explore how the organization of societies allows for toleration of conflict, creates strangers and friends, fosters interconnection, and furthers inclusion of persons with differences in abilities, beliefs, ethnic, race, gender and cultural backgrounds.
The course is discussion based, with a focus on small group activities.

This course will be taught inside a correctional facility and will include both Amherst and incarcerated students. The Amherst students will be required to attend a training session and agree to follow specific rules mandated by the facility. Transportation to and from the facility will be provided by the College.

Prospective students need to apply for admission by contacting the professor prior to pre-registration week.

Enrollment is limited to 12 students. Not open to First-year students.   Fall semester    Professor Bumiller

How to handle overenrollment: Admission will be based on interview

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Students will be required to follow the rules mandated by the correctional facility. There will be a strong emphasis on building positive interpersonal relationships. The primary mode of learning will be group-based discussion and projects. Students will also develop public speaking skills.