DSPO 25A41 - Integrity in Politics: The Case of Democracies

Multiple studies have documented the public’s loss of trust in political institutions and leaders across democracies over the past decades. Many political scientists correlate the more recent rise of populism in democratic contexts with this trend. Numerous factors account for what is now commonly called the “crisis of representative democracy,” but the rejection of political elites, increasingly perceived by citizens as self-serving, has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in undermining the belief in the democratic promise. This seminar therefore focuses on the issue of integrity in the exercise of power. It raises the question of whether it is right to require integrity and honesty from elected officials and political leaders in the same terms as would apply to ordinary citizens, and whether it is even realistic to expect such behavior from politicians in the exercise of office. Drawing on selected texts of political science and encouraging ample class discussion, the course invites students to reflect on the boundaries of ethics and integrity in politics, with special attention to lying in public statements. At broader level, students are called upon to explore the core dilemma, on which the fate of democracies may lie, that leaders in power face: to use power to serve oneself, or to serve the common good?

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• In-class role-play situation
• Oral exam
• Final essay