The Contentious 21st Century

The 21st century has set us at what social scientists call a 'critical juncture.' Since the year 2000 America and the world have been in a 'cycle of contention' in which the terms of politics, economics, and society are being reshaped. Questions of liberty and equality that many thought were settled at the end of last century are suddenly open again with advocates on all sides mobilizing resources, organizing for power, and demanding political change. In this course, we explore the lines of contention that have characterized the 21st century, examining the critical questions and social movements that have shaped the century to this point and illuminating the dynamics of power and influence that are at play in building the world to come.