Prerequisites: None

Exam Type: In Class

How does social and political change happen? When, why, and how do people, and whole nations, come together to influence large-scale policies and collective action on issues like the environment, equality, criminal justice, and much more? Why do revolutions occur? This course attempts to answer these questions by exploring a diversity of efforts to achieve societal change across various historical and contemporary contexts. In an effort to draw general lessons for those interested in making change, we will assess a range of political and legal approaches; examine mass movements and the roles played by individuals, organizations, and governments; and evaluate the conditions under which such efforts succeed or fail. Using research from psychology, political science, and economics, and drawing on a variety of case studies, the course will explore several core arguments about how change occurs:

1. Big problems are rarely resolved with comparably big solutions, but instead are better met with small acts of reform;
2. Coalition-building among unlikely allies is usually indispensable;
3. Agents of change fare best when they focus on measurable outcomes and real-world impact rather than expressive victories;
4. Informational cascades can play a critical role in accelerating social change, as people take cues from one another; and
5. Group polarization can be both desirable and dangerous, generating commitment and momentum while also increasing the risk of extremism and division.

By examining the social and behavioral mechanisms through which ideas spread, movements mobilize, institutions respond, and policies evolve, students will develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in creating lasting social change.

Note: This course is cross-listed with HKS as DPI-535 and meeting at HLS.