Summary: Devane Lecture on Power, Politics, and Global Change Since 1989

This course, part of Yale’s Devane Lectures, explores power and politics over the past 30 years, starting with the collapse of communism in 1989 through to contemporary global political shifts. It integrates history, political science, and political theory to examine key events and trends shaping today's world.

Themes and Topics Covered:

1. Post-1989 Political Shifts:

   • The fall of the Berlin Wall marked the end of the Cold War, signaling democratization across Eastern Europe.

   • Optimism surged with the spread of liberal democracy—seen in agreements like the Good Friday Accord in Northern Ireland and the Oslo Accords between Israel and Palestine.

   • Economically, the rise of capitalism replaced communism, creating neoliberal global economic policies.

2. The Rise of Global Insecurity (Post-2016):

   • Despite initial optimism, populism and far-right movements grew across Europe and the U.S., exemplified by Brexit and Trump’s presidency.

   • Countries like Germany, Austria, and Sweden saw rising support for anti-establishment parties, weakening traditional coalitions.

   • The financial crisis (2008) deepened global insecurity as governments bailed out elites, ignoring working-class grievances.

3. The Evolving Global Order:

   • Neoliberalism and the Washington Consensus spread capitalism worldwide, encouraging deregulation and privatization.

   • State capitalism emerged, particularly in China and Russia, defying the expectation that economic modernization leads to democracy.

   • Institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the UN's Responsibility to Protect signaled attempts to hold nations accountable for human rights abuses, but with mixed results.

4. Political Science Meets History:

   • The course questions established theories, such as the link between modernization and democracy, using recent global data.

   • Discussions will explore paths not taken—such as alternative responses to NATO expansion, 9/11, and the financial crisis.

   • Normative questions will also be raised: What should governments aim for? How can good policies be realistically implemented?

5. The Five Sections of the Course:

   1. Collapse of Communism and Its Aftermath: Transition to a unipolar world led by the U.S.

   2. Neoliberalism and the Washington Consensus: Examining the global spread of free-market economics.

   3. The End of History’s End: Reactions to 9/11, the rise of populism, and state capitalism.

   4. Politics of Insecurity: Effects of the financial crisis on political systems.

   5. What Is to Be Done?: Exploring policy solutions and paths to political stability.

Course Structure and Logistics:

• Lectures: Will be interactive, with opportunities for questions and discussion.

• Office Hours: Held by the instructor and teaching fellows, with sessions for Yale students and community members.

• Course Materials: Most readings available through Canvas or public libraries.

• Policies: No laptops or screens allowed during lectures, with slides and videos posted afterward.

Key Questions for the Course:

1. How did we transition from the optimism of 1989 to the instability of today?

2. What are the key challenges for democracy moving forward?

3. How can political and economic systems evolve to create better futures?

This lecture series encourages reflection on the complexities of modern politics and equips students to think critically about policy, theory, and potential solutions for the challenges of the next decade.