This course is an introductory overview of the political philosophy of Early America. As a micro course with limited class time, the material and content of the lectures are meant to provide students with the opportunity to think critically about the philosophy of the Founders and the foundational principles of American governance. The course mainly covers the historical context, institutions, achievements, controversies, and debates in Early American History. Ultimately, by the end of the course, students should have a better understanding of what makes American political philosophy distinct and unique.
The course will be useful both for people who have read, thought, and studied early American history, as well as for people who have not. Because the course is closer to a survey course than a true graduate seminar, its primary function is to introduce students to material and ideas about those materials they may not have previously considered.
Registrar’s note: Micro courses run 5 to 6 weeks and provide an opportunity for ARI students to explore an academic topic with an early career expert in that subject area—without a significant coursework burden. As micro courses have a different format and length than typical ARI live courses, they are significantly less expensive.
This course is open to current and former ARI students. Please note the live class time has changed from the initial listing, to 11:00 AM-12:30 PM Pacific Time.
Eligible for bundle discount. See Early America Micro Courses bundle note for details.
Tristen Fleig
ARI reserves the right to cancel or reschedule live courses. Students have the option to be refunded, credited, or transferred to another course should this occur.
ARI Live Courses are for avocational and professional development purposes. They are not licensed and not accredited.
ARI Live Courses participants must abide by our Code of Conduct and Confidentiality policies, and any other course policies communicated to participants.
This course is open to current and former ARI students. No specialized knowledge of American history is required.
We offer foundational courses in Objectivism and objective communication each year, as well as courses in special topics such as epistemology, literature, business, and intellectual history.
