Fall 2026 - POL 418 D100
Selected Topics in Political Theory (4)
Class Number: 6594
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Sessional
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Prerequisites:
Eight upper division units in political science or permission of the department.
Description
COURSE DETAILS:
Selected Topic: Indigenous Political Theory
Course Description:
This seminar examines the Doctrine of Discovery as a foundational legal, political, and philosophical framework of settler colonialism. The first half of the course traces its development through European debates over conquest, sovereignty, property, civilization, and Indigenous jurisdiction, with readings on the School of Salamanca, Vitoria, Sepúlveda, Las Casas, Locke, Vattel, and Canadian colonial policy. After the midterm, the course turns to Indigenous political thought and Indigenous responses to the Doctrine of Discovery, considering resurgence, reconciliation, and refusal as distinct—and sometimes competing—responses to its ongoing political and institutional effects. Throughout the seminar, we will ask how the Doctrine of Discovery continues to shape Canadian law and political life, whether reconciliation can meaningfully confront its foundations, and what Indigenous political thought reveals about the possibilities and limits of decolonization.
Grading
- Attendance/Reading Quizzes 20%
- Reflection Paper 1 30%
- Reflection Paper 2 50%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
There is no required textbook to purchase. All required readings will be posted on Canvas or made available electronically through the SFU Library. Because this is a technology-free seminar, students must bring printed copies of assigned readings or physical books to class.
Department Undergraduate Notes:
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.