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Description
Using the metaphor of the 鈥渟tate of exception,鈥� this module explores the ways the US state has developed capacity by excluding specific groups of people while simultaneously exercising sovereignty over them. After an introduction to the political concept of the state of exception, the course covers four cases: the 鈥淚mmigrant exception鈥�; the 鈥淎frican American exception鈥�; the 鈥淣ative American exception鈥�; and the 鈥淚nsular exceptions (Puerto Rico, Guam, Cuba).鈥� In each case, the state has exercised power over non-citizen subjects, using geographical or legal 鈥渆xceptions鈥� to avoid the rule of law. The course will examine how the state developed specific capacities to maintain separate and exceptional conditions, including definitional capacities, coercive capacities (e.g., border control), and 鈥渞emote control鈥� capacities (e.g., deportation regimes and guest-worker programs). The module will conclude with a consideration of the political legitimacy of this mode of state building.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.
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