POL 320 Crises of Democracy

Crises of Democracy explores the modern paradox of a simultaneous global democratic resurgence and crisis. It examines fundamental concepts such as: direct and representative democracy; the roles of bureaucracy and citizen participation; power, equality, and freedom; the relationship between democracy and capitalism, liberal and illiberal democracy, and the role of revolt or revolution in a democracy. The course also explores contemporary issues including: the recent rise of authoritarianism, multiracial democracy, gender and racial discriminations, and global challenges such as climate change, migration, and poverty. Students will learn to evaluate news sources¿ reporting on current events and the contemporary discourse of democracy.