Government 367ds - Seminar: Topics in Political Theory-Dissent

This course in political theory examines contemporary theories and practices of dissent, from civil disobedience to armed resistance to political exit. Are citizens morally obligated to obey unjust laws? What makes a law or political arrangement unjust? What kinds of protest actions are justified? What are the promises and limitations of nonviolence -- or violence? What effect do different forms of resistance have, and what is their political value? Is exiting -- quitting politics or leaving the polity -- a meaningful form of resistance? This course engages with these questions by reading contemporary texts from political science, sociology and philosophy alongside works by practitioners of forms of disobedience and resistance. Prerequisite: coursework in political theory or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only