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Harvard University

Does the Left Have a Future? - 2017-2018 Dean's Lecture in Social Sciences

Harvard University via YouTube

Overview

Explore the crisis and potential future of the left in this thought-provoking lecture by Michael Kazin, a Georgetown University professor and expert in US politics and social movements. Delve into the historical context of the left's current challenges in Europe and the United States, examining how this crisis developed and considering potential paths forward for both radical and liberal factions. Analyze key topics such as equality, the Rust Belt, the cultural left, pragmatism, factionalism, and the role of institutions in shaping political movements. Gain insights into the dilemmas facing the Democratic Party and the broader left-wing movement as they navigate contemporary political landscapes. Engage with Kazin's reflections on building a good society and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives in political discourse.

Syllabus

Introduction
What is the left
Equality
The Rust Belt
The Left Has a Future
The Role of the Left
The Future of the Left
The Cultural Left
A Contemporary Example
A Good Society
The Dilemma
The Democratic Party
Institutions Matter
Coming to Terms with Who Those People Are
pragmatism on the Left
factionalism and foreign policy
money

Taught by

Harvard University

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