Liberty and Equality: Ancient and Modern Perspectives

CLST 170FS

Examines the democratic values of liberty and equality in Greek, Roman, and American political thought. Are democracy and liberty allies or foes? What is the relationship between liberty and equality? Is freedom possible under non-democratic regimes? Is individual liberty protected by equal and inalienable human rights? What is the relationship between individual liberties and aspirations for a good and just society? Why have some democratic societies embraced imperialism or slavery? Readings drawn from Aristophanes, Thucydides, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Epictetus, Tacitus, Jefferson, Madison, Hamilton, Lincoln, Douglass, London, Du Bois, Hamer, King, and Vonnegut, among others. Focus only.

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Curriculum Codes
  • CCI
  • EI
  • CZ
  • SS
Cross-Listed As
  • ETHICS 170FS
  • POLSCI 170FS
Typically Offered
Fall Only