About This Course

This course surveys eighteenth and nineteenth century developments in the history of political thought through a close reading of its most representative texts. We will address the following concepts, among others: human nature, progress, liberty, equality, justice, domination, power, revolution, and temporality. While lectures will offer analysis and interpretation, both a conscientious reading of the assigned texts and a readiness to discuss them in class are essential elements of this course. Moreover, students are responsible for all of the materials in the assigned readings whether discussed in class or not.