Modernity and its Critique: A Global Survey

What do we mean when we refer to “modernity”? What are the defining processes and institutions of modernity? Is modernity universally experienced? And is modernity itself historical? In this seminar we will explore how a variety of thinkers from different regions and time-periods sought to understand the foundational institutions and processes associated with modernity, including the nation-state, colonialism, and ideology. Our exploration will follow two interrelated trajectories. First, we will interrogate key concepts associated with the modern experience; second, we will pay attention to how thinkers formulated these concepts to answer the pressing questions of their contemporary moment. 3 hrs. sem.