This course is based on a series of lectures offered through the University of Michigan’s Teach-Out Series on the EdX platform. The goals of the course are: 1) understand political changes by thinking systematically about different kinds of impediments to democratic politics and decision making; 2) become familiar with steps through which political systems move toward greater authoritarian rule; 3) learn frameworks to assess how contemporary changes relate to democratic vs. authoritarian tendencies; and 4) interact with others for greater critical appreciation of changing political structures and processes.

In this study group for those 50 and above which meets on Mondays for two hours from October 30 through November 30, participants will listen to lectures from a variety of experts, then engage in discussion. Additional materials might be included.

Instructor Karen Bantel was a professor and consultant in business strategy and entrepreneurship.