Understanding Genocide (389-0-20)

Instructors

Jeffrey Rice
847/491-8916
1908 Sheridan

Meeting Info

555 Clark B01: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

In this class we will consider alternative theories of genocide, mass killing, and ethnic cleansing and their relationship to nationalism, poverty, and civil war. We will address the question of hierarchies of evil, the role of the state, and the vagueness of the law itself. We will also investigate the responses or non responses from other nations. Case studies include The Holocaust, Ukraine, Rwanda.

Registration Requirements

Juniors/Seniors

Learning Objectives

How to think critically about the topics of genocide, mass murder and ethnic cleansing in real world contexts rather than in formalistic terms.

Evaluation Method

2 papers, 5 pages each and a final exam. Each worth 25% and class participation/posting on canvas also worth 25%.

Class Materials (Required)

Peter Hayes, "Why" (978-0393355468. Norton). Scott Straus, "The Order of Genocide" (Cornell U.P. 978-0801 474927), and another book to be determined.

Class Attributes

Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area