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Introduction to Political Theory


Course Description

Political theory for students with little or no previous course work in the area. Focuses on one or more important political concepts or phenomena (e.g., power, freedom, or political ambition) and as entry-point into various approaches and literatures within the field.


Athena Title

Intro to Political Theory


Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in POLS 3000E, POLS 3000H


Prerequisite

POLS 1101 or POLS 1101E or POLS 1105H


Semester Course Offered

Not offered on a regular basis.


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

The course has three goals: first, to provide an introduction to some of the most important problems and theories in political philosophy; second, to examine how different political theories are formulated and how they relate to each other; and third, to explore the ways in which works of political philosophy may inform and enrich contemporary political discussions.


Topical Outline

The Rule of the Wise and Just Achieving Stability and Security Protecting Individual Rights Naturalizing Humans through Politics Promoting Human Development Achieving a Fair Society A Libertarian Solution


Syllabus