Overview

This module serves as an essential exploration of political philosophy, navigating through the works of influential thinkers like Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Rawls. We delve into the very core of political authority, obligation, the state's role, governance ideals, and wealth distribution—crucial concepts that continue to shape our political landscape. Beyond the historical perspectives, the course then takes a compelling turn towards the present, demonstrating how these foundational theories provide invaluable insights into addressing pressing issues of our time. From grappling with the complexities of terrorism to dissecting the nuances of freedom of speech and confronting the challenges posed by the contemporary refugee crisis, students will gain a profound understanding of how political philosophy remains a dynamic and relevant guide in navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Theme 1: Foundations of Political Philosophy Overview of Political Philosophy Definition, scope, and significance of political philosophy Introduction to major political philosophers

Theme 2: Philosophical Foundations of Governance :Plato and the Philosopher Kings Examination of Plato's "Republic" The theory of philosopher kings and the ideal state

Theme 3: The Social Contract and State of Nature Hobbes and the Leviathan Exploration of Hobbes's "Leviathan" The concept of the state of nature and social contract theory

Theme 4: Locke and Limited Government Locke and Limited Government Analysis of Locke's "Two Treatises of Government" Social contract, natural rights, and limited government

Theme 5: Rousseau and the General Will Rousseau's Social Contract Understanding Rousseau's "The Social Contract" Emphasis on the general will and collective sovereignty

Theme 6: Rawls and Principles of Justice Rawls's Theory of Justice Examination of Rawls's "A Theory of Justice" Principles of justice, fairness, and the original position

Theme 7: Ethical Challenges in Modern Politics Introduction to Ethical Considerations Exploring terrorism: ethical implications and responses Analysing political philosophy's stance on freedom of speech Ethical dimensions and limitations in contemporary contexts Refugee Crisis: A Moral Inquiry Examining political philosophy's response to the refugee crisis Ethical considerations in addressing displacement and asylum.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D- to D+) Work in this band will demonstrate a cursory knowledge of the issues and arguments within both historical and contemporary political philosophy, but might show a lack of understanding, and will not demonstrate an ability to analyse or evaluate these arguments. Work in this band will fail to develop a successful argument relevant to the content of this course. -good -(C- to B+) Work in this band will demonstrate good knowledge and understanding of the issues and arguments within both historical and contemporary political philosophy, and (for the higher grades) will be able to apply that knowledge and understanding to the construction of an argument relevant to the content of this course. This argument might show some minor misunderstandings, or might not be presented with impeccable structure, but will nonetheless demonstrate the student's knowledge and understanding of the subject area, and will show that they are capable of constructing a logical and coherent argument. -excellent -(A- to A*) Work in this band will demonstrate comprehensive and very detailed understanding of historical and contemporary political philosophy, based on extensive background reading, and will demonstrate an outstanding ability to construct a logical and coherent argument relevant to the content of this course.

Learning Outcomes

• To analyse, research, and construct a sustained argument applicable to the content of this course, showing some degree of originality.

• To demonstrate knowledge of, understanding of, and an ability to critically evaluate the major developments within the history of political philosophy.

• To demonstrate knowledge of, understanding of, and an ability to critically evaluate the major themes, concepts, and arguments within contemporary political philosophy.