OAFP 9525 - Knowledge, Evidence, and Democracy

Fake news. Alternative facts. Follow the science. Misinformation. Disinformation. How can we

understand the role of information, evidence, and scientific inquiry in politics? Where does

information come from? How is it used? How can evidence, argument, and listening improve

public conversations? This seminar will examine the connections between information,

knowledge, evidence, and democracy, focusing mostly on the United States but with global

examples as well.

No prerequisites

The course will be a seminar in which all students are expected to participate in discussions based on the readings. Most seminar meetings will proceed as follows:

Reconsiderations and follow-ups from prior course meeting (15-20 minutes)

Presentation by student team of session readings and themes (20-30 minutes)

Discussion of the readings and associated issues (1 hour)

Instructor’s synthesis and comments (15 minutes)

1 group (2-4 students) presentation on the topic/readings for the scheduled day. Students presenting are responsible as well for leading the seminar conversation. (30%)

1 brief (1000 words or less) commentary on one or more readings for the class, to be submitted before the class period in which the reading is discussed. (15%)

1 final paper achieving significant progress in one or more areas discussed in the class. A separate assignment for the final paper will be distributed during Session 2. (40%)

Active, informed, engaged discussion in class discussions. 15%