Time Schedule:
David Watkins
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
In this course, we'll examine a number of debates about concept of power--its meaning and its potential legitimacy--as discussed in social, political, and philosophical theory. Students will learn about a number of debates about the meaning and nature of "power" in the 20th century that have shaped the way social science and theory have understood our social world. Theorists we'll read include Weber, Mills, Parsons, Dahl, Lukes, Arendt, Bachrach and Baratz, and Foucault.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
This is a large course, too large for seminar style discussion. Much of our course time will be devoted to lecture, but we'll have time for discussion--as a class and in smaller groups--as well.
Recommended preparation
This course has no prerequisites, but students should be aware that some of the reading material will prove challenging. Anyone up to the challenge can succeed, but some previous experience reading political and social theory or philosophy would be useful.
Class assignments and grading
A take-home midterm, a short paper on the reading during a week of the student's choosing, and a final. Participation in online discussions is required, and occasional quizzes may be administered as well.
Midterm: 30% Response paper: 20% Final: 40% Quizzes and contributions to discussion: 10%
