This course explores both the idea of utopia and its application in various genres of African Political Thought. It examines how various visions of dignity and dignified existence have shaped anti-colonial struggles, revolution, post-independence ideologies, and contemporary social movements. Through the study of key African philosophers, writers, and activists as well as by engaging multiple forms of media, we will analyze how utopianism manifests. A key thing we will question is the form of polity within which such utopianism is to be realised, for example, by looking at anarchic challenges to the state. The course engages with questions of decolonization, Pan-Africanism, socialism, and Afrofuturism, considering both historical and contemporary articulations of African futures. Students will critically assess the limits and possibilities of utopian thinking in addressing political, economic, and social challenges on the continent.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Crosslisted Courses:

Prerequisites: POL4 201 or POL4 216 or permission of the instructor.

Distribution Requirements: SBA - Social and Behavioral Analysis

Typical Periods Offered: Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall

Notes: