POL 503A Tocqueville's Political Thought: Hope, Religion, and Democracy

Following a presentation of Alexis de Tocqueville's life and work, this course aims to generate a reflection on the political, social, and morale characteristics of modern democracy in the West. The course will unfold in four parts: a description of the basic principles of a democracy as a political and civil society; the role of faith and religion in a democratic society; a comparative approach of the advent and development of modern democracy in France and in the U.S.; a critical assessment regarding the loyalty of our society to the original democratic principles and values defined by Tocqueville. This course is of particular relevance at the beginning of a new presidency that, for many reasons, also represents a new chapter in the history of American democracy.

Credits

3

Cross Listed Courses

POL 403A & POL 503A