Course Syllabus
Note from Instructor: February 7, 2014 This syllabus is still under construction. I am still shifting around some of the course content, updating links and assignments for the online format. I will be deleting and adding some of the online reading materials, but the required texts are fixed (see link below). I will be adding some instructional videos to orient you to the course and course materials. The basic course outline as it stands on this home page is accurate.
PLEASE WATCH THE FOLLOWING VIDEO TO ORIENT YOU TO INSTRUCTIONS RELEVANT TO MATTERS THAT COME UP EARLY IN THE COURSE.
COURSE DESCRIPTION: Students will engage (primarily Christian) theologies, theories, politics and practices of (non)violence that have influenced progressive social movements in the United States from the 20th century until today. Opting to formulate the term “(non)violence” in the course title indicates that we will consider how social change happens (or does not) related to the interplay between theories and tactics of both violence and (non)violence. To examine the dichotomy violence-(non)violence implies 1) questioning the dichotomy itself and clarifying definitions/usage of the terms violence and (non)violence; 2) understanding the structures of power and violence within which violence-(non)violence as social change strategies operate; 3) comparing “strategic” versus “principled” approaches to (non)violence. By discussing justifications and implications for the use of so-called violent means of social change, students will deepen their understanding and practice of (non)violence itself.
Course Requirements & Assignments
Course Summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
|---|---|---|