Politics 391SV - Sovereignty

An exploration of the idea of sovereignty, from its articulation as absolute monarchical authority in the 16th and 17th centuries to its metamorphosis as popular sovereignty in the 18th and 19th centuries to current debates over whether sovereign power is outmoded both domestically and in international relations. Drawing on historical as well as political theoretical texts, we will assess sovereign power and sovereign freedom as political ideals and consider whether we should lament or applaud the difficulty of actualizing them in political life.

This course is open to Juniors and Seniors.; Prereq: jr, sr, 8 credits in politics, international relations, or critical social thought.