Politics

Foundations of Politics

Module code: M1036
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Essay

On this module, you'll explore central concepts and issues in political theory, focusing on both the way politics is and the way it ought to be. You'll consider questions such as:

• why should we obey the state?
• is democracy the best form of government?
• what makes a just society?

You'll begin with fundamental and enduring questions in political theory, progressing to more recent debates. Each week's analysis builds on the last, helping you develop a foundational understanding of political theory and start forming your own answers to these key questions.

Module learning outcomes

• Identify the key normative concepts used in politics
• Contribute to discussion using normative concepts
• Read and comment in writing on original texts and authoritative commentaries in normative political theory