This course offers an introduction to the history of Western political ideas from Hobbes to Rawls. Close readings of the canon allow us to discuss enduring questions regarding freedom, equality, legitimacy, political economy, and liberalism. Particular attention is paid to the development of political liberalism by thinkers such as Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Kant, and Mill, as well as the radical critiques of liberalism advanced by traditionalism, socialism, feminism, and critical race theory. The course concludes with a look at the continuing impact of these canonical thinkers on contemporary political thought.
Offered: UMass Boston, Fall 2018 and Spring 2019
Position: Instructor of record