Events

This course takes students on a fascinating exploration of the totalistic tendencies that have proven to be alluring alternatives to the democratic states and societies: fascism on the right and Communism on the left. These movements were often shrouded with utopian promises against a backdrop of apocalyptic struggles, regardless of the movement’s time and place. We begin by examining case studies drawn from Europe and Asia between the 1920s and 1960s. We will then investigate more recent iterations of fundamentalism, including political, racial, and religious fundamentalism (1960-today). The course concludes by exploring the nature and appeal of cults.

The course is offered on four Mondays and Thursdays during the spring. All materials will be supplied. There will be some “homework” opportunities.