Critical Social Inquiry 0267 - Revolution/Reunification

India's image in the West as a land of poverty and spirituality often obscures its long tradition of radical and vibrant social movements. This course explores recent and ongoing people's movements in India. Beginning with lectures that introduce students to politics and society in India, it moves on to in-depth case studies of vibrant people's movements, such as the armed revolution of the Naxals, non-violent movements for gender justice and queer liberation, dalit (oppressed caste) movements and the embattled protests of peasants and tribal communities against dams and mines, that threaten their livelihood and the environment. Besides readings, this course will rely heavily on documentaries and skype conversations with activists. Students will be encouraged to think through the possibilities and limits of violent and non-violent strategies employed by protestors. This is an advanced seminar where students can develop independent research and advance writing skills in anticipation of the Division III.

Independent Work Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research No prerequisite: Course is not suitable for Division I students. Students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.