Selected Topics in Political Theory: Wealth and Democracy in Political Thought


This course considers the relationship between wealth and democracy primarily through the lens of political theory. Topics to be investigated include: classical concerns that democracy is undesirable because it is rule by the poor; the role of property in liberal government; whether the U.S. Constitution was designed to protect property interests; the nature of political corruption; political and legal debates about campaign finance reform from the late 20th century to the present, including whether money is speech and whether campaigns should be publicly financed. Readings will be drawn from canonical ancient and early modern philosophers and political theorists, contemporary studies of the impact of wealth on American democracy, and key Supreme Court decisions including Citizens United. The course is recommended for juniors and seniors but is open to all students.