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Academic Year 2003/2004
Deliberative Democracy and the History of Democratic Theory
GOVT 348 FA
This study of the meaning and relevance of democracy in contemporary politics will examine alternative conceptions of democracy and the conditions under which democratic regimes emerge and stabilize themselves. We will
be particularly concerned with the implications of democractic institutions for the economy, with the question of whether capitalism is necessary for (or compatible with) democracy. We will consider the issue of
democracy
and difference, examining questions raised from the perspectives of postmodernism, feminism, and ethnic/cultural minorities. Throughout the course we will be particularly interested in the prospects for democracy in the
former socialist countries.
MAJOR READINGS
Rousseau, THE SOCIAL CONTRACT
Arendt, THE HUMAN CONDITION
Geuss, THE IDEA OF A CRITICAL THEORY
Habermas, BETWEEN FACTS AND NORMS
Rawls, ¿THE IDEA OF PUBLIC REASON REVISITED¿
Gutmann, and Thompson,
DEMOCRACY AND DISAGREEMENT
EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS
Two 4-6 page papers, one 10-12 page paper.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS
This course examines in depth the dominant contemporary theory of democracy, deliberative democracy. As background to the theory of deliberative democracy, we will during the first third of the semester discuss some of
the earlier main models of
democracy, from that of ancient Athens over the American Founders to those of 20th century minimalist and radical democrats. The readings on deliberative democracy include both continental and American writers. Our
discussions will relate deliberative
democracy to some central themes in political theory, such as individual freedom, equality, difference, gender, and representation.
COURSE FORMAT:
Lecture/Discussion
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Level:
UGRD
Credit:
1
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS GOVT
Grading Mode:
Student Option
Prerequisites:
NONE
SECTION 01
- Instructor(s): Rostboll,Christian F.
- Times: ..T.R.. 02:40PM-04:00PM; Location: BTFDC210
- Reserved Seats: (Total Limit: 30)
- SR. major: 10 Jr. major: 10
- SR. non-major: 4 Jr. non-major: 3 SO: 3 FR: 0
Special Attributes:
- Curricular Renewal: Ethical Reasoning, Writing
Links to Web Resources For This Course.
Last Updated on MAR-19-2004
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Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459