Students should select a debate, associated with one of the main concepts and themes
covered by the first 7 lectures (i.e. colonialism, modernity, ethnic/national identities and their
role in modern societies, meaning of intent, classification of a victim group, “hard/narrow”
versus “soft/broad” definition of genocide, etc.) and write a 5-7 page analysis of the contested
issue. The analysis should be couched within the student’s own critical argument on the
subject and should avoid making a claim based on any specific historic case. Historic cases
may be used simply to elucidate a point or as examples. Students should make a meaningful
use of the class readings. Suggested readings should also be included in the discussion. –
