Course examines current problems and issues in the field of public policy. Topics may vary from year to year and will be announced at the beginning of the semester. Open to students from other departments.

2022 was the most tumultuous year in this nation’s history since the Civil War. The Supreme Court reversed Roe v Wade, the first time in its history that the justices have withdrawn a constitutional right; attacks on “critical race theory” roiled the schools; assaults on racial and ethnic minorities increased exponentially, as did mass shootings; immigrants faced mounting hostility; LGBT rights, including the right to marriage, were under siege. The threat to democracy was—and continues to be-- all too real, and 2023 promises to be no different. The course focuses on the complex and profoundly consequential ethical dilemmas that these issues present. Since these questions reverberate globally, the course incorporates international as well as domestic content.The stakes for society, as well as for every one of us, could not be higher. Readings and other materials, including videos and podcasts, explore these topics and situate them in historical perspective. Public officials, journalists, academics and activists will occasionally join the class as guest speakers. The class is conducted as a dialogue, not a lecture; you are expected to actively participate, grounding your arguments in evidence and reason.

Repeat Rules