The Federalist Papers

This seminar will focus on the eighty-five Federalist Papers, the pseudonymous essays published by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison in defense of the new U.S Constitution as part of the ratification battles. We will read the essays closely, seeking to understand the “science of democracy” as it existed in the 18th century and the design principles at the heart of hard choices made by the designers of the U.S. Constitution. This course is open to students in all schools and at all levels but capped at 25. Petitions will be approved on a first come, first served basis.

Also offered by the Government Department as GOV 2087 and by the Law School as 3430.