Good Citizenship, Civil Discourse and Election 2024

About this course:

The concept of American citizenship and civil discourse has evolved since America’s founding. In this course, we investigate the practice and ideal of civic engagement as well as the increasing political polarization in the United States. We consider the nature and limits of American democracy over time, the historical roots of public discourse, and the conflict and compromises inherent in a democracy (and particularly in an election year). We also discuss contemporary and historical case studies, literary depictions, as well as current events emerging from the 2024 primary election season.