AHUM 22A10 - ABCs of Politics: Theoretical and Practical Perspectives on Contemporary Politics (The)

This course explores some of the central texts and key ideas of 20th and 21st century political theory. Inspired by the Abécédaire of Gilles Deleuze, the course is divided into thematic sessions that follow a seemingly playful, yet meaningful, alphabetic order. The course is divided into two main parts: the first, more historical in nature, will focus on key texts and authors in chronological order, from the end of World War II to the early 1990s. Besides discussing the content of the texts, these first lectures will give particular attention to the political and social context in which the texts were written. We will begin with the liberal critics of totalitarianism (Berlin and Hayek), continue with a discussion on The Frankfurt School and critical theory, Rawls' idea of justice, Nozick's critique of Rawls, and Okin's feminist theory in Justice, Gender and the Family. The second part will deal with major topics and debates in contemporary political theory. We will first examine the tension between the ideas of virtue and right, merit, meritocracy and equality and multiculturalism and national identity. We will then discuss the topic of freedom of speech and reflect on the role of sex and sexuality in contemporary politics. Our course will end with a re-examination of the question ‘What is political theory?' and focus on its role in today's higher education. Considering public criticism leveled at certain political theories taught at universities in recent years (in France and other Western countries) we will ask whether ‘political theory' is itself a topic in political theory. The course is accompanied by a weekly seminar. These sessions are designed to give students an opportunity to raise questions about the readings and lectures and to discuss them (and other relevant topics) openly and freely in small groups.

Yoel MITRANI,Leonardo BARROS DA SILVA MENEZES

Cours magistral et conférences

English

Autumn 2022-2023

To validate the course, students must pass a final exam (30% of the final grade) and successfully pass the seminar requirements and assignments (70% of the grade). o Final exam (30%): The exam will consist of two parts: In the first part, students will be asked to answer one essay question (~1000 words). The question will be broad, and students will be asked to refer to several texts (of their choice) discussed during the semester. In the second part, students will be asked to answer two short questions (~500 words). In this part, the questions will be narrow and will ask the students to clarify specific arguments in the texts discussed during the semester. o Seminar evaluation (70%): Full details about reading materials, assignments and deadlines will be provided to students during the first seminar session.

o To introduce major texts and authors in contemporary political theory. o To examine the meaning and justification of important ideas and concepts which are relevant to the study of politics. o To develop critical skills necessary to analyse complex theoretical arguments and assess their strengths and weaknesses.