Course Catalogue

Political Philosophy Non Honours PHIL3014

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 3 (SCQF level 9)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course concentrates on some central and controversial values invoked in the appraisal of political life and on a range of theories that seek to ground them. In particular, we will discuss the nature and scope of individual rights, liberty and autonomy; and questions concerning the nature and justification of democratic government.

Timetable

16x1hr lectures; 4x1hr seminars over eleven weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

This is one of the Level 3 options in Philosophy and may not run every year. The options that are running this session are available on MyCampus.

Requirements of Entry

Grade D3 or above in one of the Philosophy level 2 courses or at the discretion of the Head of Philosophy.

Excluded Courses

PHIL4039 Political Philosophy.

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:  

 

 

■ Essay (1,800 words) - 40%

■ Examination (2-hour duration) - 60%

  

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

  

 

■ There is no alternative to the Essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

 

■ There is no alternative to the Written Examination, but extra time and/or a separate room may be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for examination adjustments).  

 

  

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor 

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ study a number of major issues in contemporary political philosophy;

■ study and critically engage with core positions and arguments within political philosophy on topics such as: liberalism; rights; autonomy; democracy;

■ Compare and critically evaluate competing positions within contemporary political philosophy.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Explain the main theses of important theories within contemporary political philosophy;

■ Assess the arguments offered both in support of and against the central theories;

■ Explain and critically evaluate explanations of moral discourse and behaviour.

■ Contrast the views of select philosophers on core topics within political philosophy.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions