We’re thrilled to announce that a new student-directed seminar on Theories of Material and Social Progress – From Enlightenment to Silicon Ideology is open for registration for Winter Term 2 of 2026-27! Learn more about this exciting course below.
POLI 344Z-001: Theories of Material and Social Progress – From Enlightenment to Silicon Ideology
Time: Winter Term 2 – Wednesdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: BUCH D315
Eligibility: Two of POLI 100, POLI 101, POLI 110, POLI 240. Or third year standing or higher.
Credit: 3 credits
Course description
“The philosophers have interpreted the world; our task is to change it.”
― Karl Marx, Theses on Feuerbach.
“Theories of Material and Social Progress – From Enlightenment to Silicon Ideology” critically examines Progress as a contingent, progressive and reactionary phenomenon working in different directions in different contexts. In a moment where headlines are dominated by questions such as the “failure of the liberal world order”, “environmental breakdown”, and “the return of Fascism”, the study of Progress in all its dimensions – from the Ideal to the Material, Social and Culture, is more critical than ever. We investigate core aspects, and theories of Progress in two dimensions: (1) in terms of its “misuse” for totalitarian, colonial, or otherwise regressive uses, and (2) in terms of its reclamation for humanist, democratic, and progressive purposes.
Meet the student coordinator
Max Krzysik-Horiguchi (He/Him)
Max is a fourth-year student in Honours of Human Geography and Honours of Political Science with specialties in political theory, geopolitics, and critical theories. His interest in politics began with engagement in the Climate Justice movement around a decade ago, giving him a critical lens on questions of development and progress. Max’s work in climate justice began with Sustainabiliteens and later Climate Strike Canada, helping organize some of the largest climate strikes in Vancouver history, and working to pass net zero and climate action motions across the Lower Mainland.
Outside of the classroom, Max is an active contributor to the UBC community. He presently serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Geography Undergraduate Journal, Trail Six. He is also a canvas coordinator with the Coalition of Progressive Electors (COPE) municipal election campaign, working on issues of social and climate justice. In his free time, Max enjoys long-distance running, hiking, and alternative music.
