Course content

This course offers an introduction to political theory. The course surveys political thinkers from Plato to contemporary theorists, looking at their ideas about the politics, morality, rights and duties, and the place of religion in political life.

Learning outcome

Knowledge - the student shall:

• have an overview of western political thinking
• have knowledge of the central concepts in political theory, both from a classical perspective and from newer thinking.

Skills - the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

• situate political science works within the context of a specific academic history and perspective.
• account for the central theoretical contributions in political thinking, both in a written and oral manner, and be able to use them in the light of contemporary conditions.
• demonstrate independence in the preparation of a semester assignment which fulfills the criteria for scientific writing.

Learning methods and activities

2 hours of lectures per week throughout the semester, 2 hours of group discussion in some weeks and term paper supervision. Term paper must be approved in order to take the exam. The term paper may be a joint project of up to 3 students. A list of possible topics will be presented.

Compulsory assignments

• Term paper

Recommended previous knowledge

None.

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.

Credit reductions