Module Directory

This module examines universal political themes such as authority, legitimacy, justice, freedom, and equality from a philosophical and moral perspective. We study some classical texts in the Western tradition of political thought with the main aim of understanding the implications they have for us today. We will explore the ways in which these ideas have shaped the institutions that govern present-day societies, and how they can help us make sense of current politics. At the same time, we will take care to locate these texts in their respective historical contexts to better understand them as political acts. Our purpose in engaging with these texts is not to canonize them. Rather, it is to understand their contribution to the history of the western world – for better or for worse. After completing this module, GV150 is highly recommended for those interested in critiques of the Western tradition.

The aims of this module are:

• To introduce students to the study of the history of political thought and to stimulate interest in the topic.


• To familiarise students with key concepts in political theory such as authority, freedom, rights, equality, and with key debates on the meaning and the application of these concepts.


• To equip students with the understanding of the relevance of political theory to the study of politics.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Read, understand, and discuss classical texts in the history of Western political thought.


2. Understand the place and the relevance of normative debates to the study of politics.


3. Appreciate how political ideas and values help to shape real-world practices and institutions.


4. Demonstrate a basic understanding of key political concepts such as authority, freedom, equality etc. and the theoretical debates regarding them.


5. Improve their critical thinking and communication skills.

• Understand the difference between normative and descriptive approaches to politics, and how ideas can drive change in systems, institutions, and behaviour.


• Apply theory and evidence to support one’s own argument.


• Critically evaluate policies and political phenomena by applying theoretical frameworks, evidence, and normative perspectives.


• Understand the need for clarity in the presentation of ideas, statements of theory, concepts, and causal relations.


• Communicate ideas clearly using rigorous arguments.


• Engage other students in class discussions and share experiences of learning.

This module will be delivered via:

• 2 hour seminar