BMET 27A93 - American Political Thought: Colonial Era to Present

This course broadly surveys the history of American political thought, from the colonial period to the present. In this course we will explore the interactive relationship between political ideas and political, social, and economic developments in American history. The course readings consist of a variety of primary sources collected in Keith E. Whittington’s American Political Thought reader, in addition to a selection of supplementary readings from a diverse selection of authors of political theory. This is a discussion-centered course, where students will be expected to present their assigned readings to the class in a dynamic, creative, and critical manner – going beyond mere summation of the text – and to actively participate in class discussions.

• Participation 20%
• Discussion Presentations (4x 10% = 40%
• Final Essay 40%