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Rousseau and Nationalism: On the Government of Poland

COURSE SYLLABUS

Semester: Winter 2017

Instructor: Professor Christopher Kelly (Boston College)

Email: kellyfv@bc.edu

Course description:

Rousseau is one of the first prominent political theorists to address himself to the question of nationalism and to propose one version of nationalism as an attractive option for addressing the problems of modern politics. The primary work in which he addresses these topics is his Considerations on the Government of Poland. This work presents his novel understanding of the basis of nationalism and its political function.

Aims and Purpose:

The primary aims of this course are to make students familiar with one of most important, although today not so well known, political texts and to develop their ability of close reading and interpretation of texts in political philosophy. The seminar will also improve student's analytical and argumentative skills.

Teaching Methodology:

The seminar will consist of a close reading / interpretation of Rousseau's On the Government of Poland. The students will be expected to have read the assigned reading before the class so that they can participate in the discussion.

Text:

Students can read any French edition of Considerations sur le gouvernement de Pologne. The English edition used in class sessions will be the University Press of New England of The Plan for Perpetual Peace, On the Government of Poland, and Other Writings on History and Politics.

NB: The recommended edition will be provided to registered students in electronic form.

Requirements:

The course will require a term paper on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with me. The length should be at least 8 standard pages for undergraduate students and 12 for MA students. The paper should be in MS Word format and should be emailed to me at kellyfv@bc.edu. The paper should be sent to me by November 30.

Schedule:

Session 1: Monday, November 6. 2.00-4.50 PM. Room J3014.

Chapters 1-3

Question to be considered: Why is Poland Rousseau’s choice for a consideration of nationalism?

Session2: Tuesday, November 7. 5.00-7.50 PM. Room J3014.

Chapters 4-9

Question to be considered: What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Polish form of government?

Session 3: Thursday, November 9. 5.00-7.50 PM. Room J2063.

Chapters 10-15

Question to be considered: Is Rousseau proposing reform or revolution?