John Holzwarth

Academic Credentials

BA Political Science and English, Colgate University, 1993

PhD Politics, Princeton University, 2004

Teaching

Spring 2024 Courses:

POLS 312: Pillars of Western Political Thought: The Fate of Democracy
TTH 01:50PM - 03:20PM

Democracy aspires to level the political playing field, but when power is taken from the hands of elites, where does it go? How thoroughly can democratic politics transform a culture, and what, if anything, can check its influence? Is the democratic age safer from radical evil, or does it help produce fascism and totalitarianism? This course examines the pros, cons, and prospects of the democratic age, with primary emphasis on foundational thinkers from the early 19th century to the present. Readings may include:
Alexis de Tocqueville, John Stuart Mill, Friedrich Nietzsche, Walt Whitman, Hannah Arendt, Isaiah Berlin, and Michel Foucault, among others.

Prerequisites: None.
Restrictions: Sophomore standing required.

POLS 316: Ethics and Public Policy 
TTH 11:30AM - 01:00PM

Rigorous consideration of controversial issues in contemporary normative political theory. Introduction to major frameworks for ethics. Topics may include abortion, euthanasia, punishment and the death penalty, multiculturalism, affirmative action, women’s rights, gay rights, animal rights, just war theory, social welfare.

Prerequisites: None.
Restrictions: Junior standing required.