COML5965 - Anticolonialism & Marxism

In spite of the recent proliferation of scholarship on the topic of decolonization, Western academics have often failed to seriously engage with the rich corpus of anticolonial theory and analysis produced in the context of struggles against imperialism. This course examines theories of imperialism, neo- and internal colonialism, and decolonization developed in the 20th and early 21st centuries, focusing on thinkers and movements from the global South, and from Latin America and the Caribbean in particular. We will address differences among contemporary discourses on decolonization, while delving deep into national liberation Marxism. Theories and debates within Marxist thought concerning national self-determination, racism, and development will figure prominently in the course, as will analyses of cultural imperialism, ideology, and the role of intellectuals and artists. The course will be conducted in English; course readings will be in English and Spanish. Students with questions about language requirements should contact the instructor. This course is open to MA and Ph.D. students. Submatriculated M.A. students and advanced undergraduates should contact the instructor to request permission to enroll and should submit a permit request via Path@Penn.