Introduction to Political Theory (201-0-20)

Instructors

Shmuel Nili
Scott Hall, Room 20
Office Hours: http://www.polisci.northwestern.edu/people/core-faculty/shmulik-nili.html

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-425: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This course is an introduction to political theory, emphasizing contemporary policy issues and their links to canonical moral and political philosophy. Students learn about some of the central questions and concepts that animate political theory and the history of political thought. They acquire familiarity with some of political theory's main texts and styles of argument, with special attention to the analytical tradition in political thought.

The course focuses on two sets of themes. First, utilitarian moral and political philosophy and its critics; second, the relationship between sovereignty, authority, and the law. Each of these themes is presented in a way that puts center-stage practical questions concerning both individual conduct and institutional design. By the end of the course you should have a good sense of the major claims and debates pertaining to each of these areas of moral and political theory.

Learning Objectives

Core issues and modes of argument in contemporary political philosophy, with some historical background

Evaluation Method

- Active class participation (in lecture and especially section)
- Three five-page papers.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Attributes

Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Interdisciplinary Distro-rules apply
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Ethics & Values Distro Area

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-registration -- Reserved for Political Science students until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites.

Associated Classes

DIS - TBA: Thurs 2:00PM - 2:50PM

DIS - TBA: Thurs 3:00PM - 3:50PM