Foundations of Politics (M1036)
Foundations of Politics
Module M1036
Module details for 2022/23.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
This module provides an introduction to some of the central concepts and issues in political theory. It offers you an opportunity to think not just about the way politics is, but also about the way it ought to be. We will ask questions such as 'why should we obey the state'', 'is democracy the best form of government'', and 'what makes a just society'' We begin with some of the most fundamental and enduring questions in political theory, and we finish with some more recent debates. The module is designed to be cumulative, so that the analysis developed in one week is built on in the weeks that follow. By the end of the term you should have acquired a basic understanding of the central questions in political theory, and you should have begun to develop some of your own answers to these 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
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | PS2 Week 1 | 70.00% |
| Project | T2 Week 7 | 30.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Hannah Richter
Assess convenor
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