FRLA 8273
Gender, Minorities, Democracy
Democracy is always a work in progress; the very meaning of the word is disputed, and it is indeed a site of contestation, innovation, reaction and renewal. We will first examine competing definitions, views, and practices of “democracy” and its twin, “the law.” Then we will structure our class as a series of five key questions. 1) If democracy is understood as the rule of the majority, what is the status of women, minorities and other groups that have traditionally been marginalized? And what constitutes a minority? What are their specific contributions to pluralist democracy? 2) What is the relationship between majority and minorities, between individual rights and duties, and between community rights and duties? 3) Is this concept and practice limited to the political sphere or does it also apply to other social spheres, like the family, the work place, the media, international relations, etc.? 4) How can societies enlarge the private sphere and individual rights without causing social bonds to fray? What are some key variations of the democratic experience to devise the best social compact? And 5) how do the United States, France and other countries fare against ideal models or ideal definitions of democracy?
Class sessions will be predominately discussion- and activity-based. Assessments and deliverables will include short written reflections on the topics du jour (1/2 to 1 page home and in class), 2 vocabulary and grammar quizzes (based on weekly compilations of vocabulary prepared by weekly secrétaires), one home essay (3 drafts and only the last one is graded) and one professional presentation. You choose your essay and presentation topics based on your specializations and personal interest. There is no required textbook; materials will be distributed in class or posted on Canvas. The course will be conducted in French with occasional use of English sources, and is destined for students with an Intermediate High level of proficiency.
- Subject:
- French
- Department:
- Language & Intercultural Study
- Division:
- Transltn, Interpret & Lang Edu
- Requirements Fulfilled: