University Core Curriculum's Statement of Purpose: The tension between order and chaos has always posed a dilemma for human beings. In the West, people throughout the ages have adopted different ways to reconcile these apparent opposites. We in the Core examine this dilemma and how it frames our understanding of who we are, what we can know, and how we should act.
Course Description: The theme of the 2000-01 year will be the development of democracy and democratic governments. A number of primary documents and readings will be used in all sections of the course. These materials will form the basis for class activities tracing the evolution of the concepts and institutions which led to democratic governments as we know them in today's world.
Core Curriculum:
Completed successfully, this course will meet the "History Core" requirement in the RWU Core Curriculum. In addition to the specific requirements for this course, as outlined below, you are expected to participate fully in the overall Core Program activities.
General policies:
1) Attendance is expected; absence from more than 8 classes will normally result in a drop of 1 full grade (ex., from 'B' to 'C' for a semester grade); absence from more than 12 classes will normally result in an 'F' grade for the course. Unless you've talked with the instructor prior to class, if you leave before the class is over, that class will be counted as an absence.
2) The "warning grade" will be based on work due on or before March 15.
3) Note that some assignments have late penalties.
4) No exam will be given early.
5) All students will have an email address. If you don't have one now, please get one as soon as possible at the Academic Computer Center.
6) No "Incomplete" grades will be given for this course.
Books: for purchase in the book store:
Watson et al., eds., The Idea of Democracy, [2nd ed] NY: McGraw-Hill, 2000.
Thomas H Greer and Gavin Lewis, A Brief History of the Western World, 7th ed, San Diego: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1997.
Reserve materials:
Many of the assigned readings will come from the Watson et al. book; some will be handouts in class; others will be on my, Watson, 'reserve' at the Library's circulation desk.
