Identity Politics: A History and Critique
This course traces the development of identity politics in America. Identity politics primarily grows out of the black nationalist, Black Power, and women’s liberation movements of the 1960s and 1970s. While it has not fully conquered the public’s mind, the core assumptions of identity politics now seem to reign almost unchallenged among American elites, all of whom worship at the altar of diversity. Is the triumph of identity politics good for American democracy? Or does identity politics pose a grave threat to republican self-government by corroding patriotic ties and demanding special treatment rather than equality under the law?
Dr. David Azerrad
David Azerrad is an Assistant Professor and Research Fellow at Hillsdale College’s Van Andel Graduate School of Government in Washington, D.C. His research and writing focuses on classical liberalism, conservative political thought and identity politics. Prior to joining Hillsdale, Azerrad was the Director of the B. Kenneth Simon Center for Principles and Politics at The Heritage Foundation. He has taught previously at American University and the University of Dallas. A native of Montreal, Azerrad received his BA from Concordia University, his MA from Carleton University and his PhD in politics from the University of Dallas.
Meet the Instructor
Tikvah aims to make all of our courses available to as many qualified students as possible. In the event that Tikvah needs to add additional sections, this course may be taught by a different faculty member with a similarly high level of expertise.
