Activism and Dissidence.

Catalog description

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course will explore the history and theory behind activist and dissident movements. Readings will be drawn from many types of dissident texts, including political theory, sociology, philosophy, history, literature, theology, art and testimonials from activists on the ground. Students will explore the connections between today’s anti-authoritarian and anti-colonial movements around the world with historically relevant precedents and key texts of theoretical foundations. Core questions will include: Why do activists choose to engage in politics? Why have governments responded so differently to activists throughout history? What are the challenges facing people around the world as they contest established norms and injustices? Assignments will ask students to hone their writing skills and engage in conversation with activist communities in order to better understand multiple worldviews.