Course Catalogue

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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.

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.

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

PHIL4039 Political Philosophy.

Essay (1,800 words) - 40%

Examination (2-hour duration) - 60%

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.

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.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.