Modern and Post-Modern Political Thought

This course examines one of the central dilemmas of modern and post-modern political theory: the sense that the Enlightenment project has come to an end, and the need to establish a "new," more fitting, conception of human beings in the world. Readings include Dostoevsky, Notes from Underground; Nietzsche, Genealogy of Morals, and Zarathustra; Freud, Civilization and Its Discontents, and some of Heidegger's later essays, including "The Question Concerning Technology," "Letter on Humanism," and "The Essence of Truth." Previous courses in philosophy or political philosophy highly recommended. (PSCI 0101 or PSCI 0102 or PSCI 0104 or PSCI 0107) 3 hrs. sem. (Political Theory)/