Although human rights are formally recognized in visionary documents like the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the many principles tied to human rights have long been debated by philosophers, artists, theologians, and writers. This course studies the evolution of human rights as cultural artifacts, examining how ideas about human rights and humanitarianism were fashioned within literature, philosophy, film, public debate, and various international legal forums over history.

Through readings covering large topics like crimes against humanity, immigration, abolitionism, and universal suffrage, we will ask: How did the world assent to a global culture of human rights? What hopes and dreams have human rights embodied? Conversely, what recurring critiques have been raised about the norms and ideals tied to human rights?