FYS 16 Revolution
This seminar traces the theory and practice of revolution in modern history. We start with the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment as the paradigm shifts which brought a revolution in thought and subjectivity in Europe. From there we focus on the French Revolution and political revolution, following its legacy and impact through the revolutions of the 19th century, the rise of Socialism and Communism, the Russian Revolution, decolonization, and the global revolts of 1968. The course looks closely at how these revolutions in thought and politics changed the way people understood their relationship to state and society. We will ask a number of questions, including: What causes revolutions? Who makes a revolution? What is the meaning of success or failure in a revolutionary situation?
Among other questions, this course poses: How do revolutions speak to each other, both across time in the same national setting, or across national contexts? What does the act of revolt or rebellion tell us about power in a given historical moment? Finally, how does studying historical moments of transition or rupture help us understand contemporary culture and politics?
Open only to first-year frosh.