Time Schedule:
Deepa Bhandaru
POL S 273
Seattle Campus
How to understand and explain relationships of power. Readings from Marxism, Weberian sociology, anarchism, classical political philosophy, and contemporary political science. May also include works of fiction.
Class description
Power is a central, albeit contested, concept in the study of politics and society. This course explores different approaches to theorizing power in an effort to develop a broader, yet more precise vocabulary to address the questions: What is power and how can we identify it? How does power operate in social and political life? Where is power located? Who (if anyone) has power? Is power something to be possessed (say, by governments) or is it more omnipresent, unruly, and flowing (through the economy, social norms, and even in private life)?
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lecture and discussion
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Three response papers, a take-home midterm exam, and a take-home final exam
Response Papers (20%), Midterm Exam (30%), Final Exam (30%), Participation (20%)
