Contours of American Thought

This seminar will trace the outlines of the principal nodes of American thought, culture and ideas, through an intensive encounter with American politics, religion, philosophy and music. It will direct participants' attention to the fundamental contest between Enlightenment and Puritanism in American identity, and grapple with American collegiate philosophy, the abolitionist movement, 20th-century Black intellectuals, feminism, and the contest among neo-liberalism, progressivism, and conservatism through a wide variety of readings and lively discussion.