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Resources

Foucault, M. (1980). Power/knowledge: Selected interviews and other writings 1972-1977. Ed. Colin Gordon. Pantheon Books. New York, New York.

www.criticalthinking.org

Core Concepts of Political Engagement

To fulfill the mission of the Political Engagement Project (PEP) students and faculty can benefit from an understanding of two core concepts and their effect on the students: Critical Thought and Power/Empowerment.

  • Critical Thought: Faculty may also aid students by fostering skills that empower them to think and analyze critically in their discipline. Engaging students in learning through critical thought and civic and educational empowerment is an essential prerequisite for turning them on to their possibilities in the political arena.
  • Power and Empowerment: Students frequently note their perceived LACK of power and associated feelings of powerlessness when discussing their potential to impact the society around them. By developing awareness of power structures that surround issues of concerns, faculty may aid students to identify touchpoints and thus an opportunity to make a difference.

By facilitating both critical thinking and identifying touch points for students, faculty can foster students’ participation and political engagement in the broadest terms.

 

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