John Holzwarth
Assistant Professor with Term
Academic Credentials
BA Political Science and English, Colgate University, 1993
PhD Politics, Princeton University, 2004
Teaching
Spring 2021
POLS 312: Pillars of Western Political Thought: The Fate of Democracy
T/TH 2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
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.
Restrictions: Sophomore standing required
POLS 316: Ethics and Public Policy
T/TH 9:55 am - 11:25 am
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.
Restrictions: Junior standing required