- Colonialism entails a nation or state invading the territory of another nation and ruling in the colonizers’ own interests, rather than those of the local people. Some anti-colonial activists believed that nonviolence was the best way to end colonial rule and achieve autonomy or independence. Others argued that colonialism could only be defeated through violent struggle. Is violence justified in fighting against the colonial rule? Why or why not? Formulate an argument and support it using examples, from readings and lectures, of authors’ arguments and real-world cases.
- In a postcolonial setting, how do new governments try to organize society? Cosmopolitanism holds that all people are part of a single global community and so its followers advocate inclusion and cooperation across political borders and differences of identity. Nationalists, while they may sometimes cooperate across borders, believe that political and social systems should be organized on the basis of group identity, as opposed to having a more integrated, pluralistic society. Compare and contrast the cosmopolitan and nationalist positions, then choose one of the two and discuss the potential flaws or downsides in its vision of how postcolonial society should be organized. Formulate an argument and support it using examples, from readings and lectures, of authors’ arguments and real-world cases.
-Thesis/Argument: Logical reasoning, supported claims, and critical thinking
-Fully-formed, complete and wholly logical argument. Demonstrates a clear understanding of course materials and prompt, but advances an original argument not directly discussed in course materials.
-Analysis/synthesis: Examination and interpretation of class materials to compare and contrast ideologies and their principles or goals.
-Key elements and arguments are identified and clarified in detail. Accurate, deep interpretation and justification using independent thought, building on course materials to present new and original interpretations and ideas.
-Discussion: Development, depth, breadth and synthesis
-Deep and copious evidence and/or comparative detail in supporting an argument with clear, logical examples. Discussion fully developed with the author’s opinion or interpretation in taking a stance of advocacy or criticism. Completely and fully accurate, extensive understanding of relevant course concepts.
-Writing, organization, & structure: Clarity and accuracy of the message; clear, logical structure and flow; grammatical or spelling errors do not an obscure argument.
-Proper citation of sources with formatted references (in-text citations/bibliography or footnotes.