FYS: Democratic Erosion

3 Credits.

This First-Year Seminar explores how political polarization reshapes democratic norms, institutions, and identities, with particular attention to young people as both products and agents of democratic erosion. The course examines how and why democracies weaken, and how leaders are using democracy to erode democracy.Students will explore questions like:What is democratic erosion, and how is it different from previous forms of authoritarianism? When does polarization cross the line from healthy conflict to democratic decay? How do identity, belonging, and moral certainty shape citizens’ willingness to accept democratic rules? Why do young people often distrust institutions while still believing in democratic ideals—and what does that mean for democracy’s future?Students will engage with a mix of accessible political science, journalism, and primary sources, including case studies from the United States and abroad; survey data on polarization, trust, and youth attitudes; media coverage and social-media content; and short philosophical and historical texts on democracy, legitimacy, and civic responsibilities.The seminar emphasizes active discussion and debate. Students will analyze real-world political controversies, participate in structured debates, and reflect on how polarization shapes their own political identities. Short writing assignments and a final project will ask students to assess whether democracies can be repaired—and what role their generation might play.