161-218 Control and Consent: Classics of Political Thought

Note

Available as 161-318 at 3rd-year level.

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

One first-year single-semester Philosophy subject. Students who lack this prerequisite, but believe themselves adequately prepared to attempt any second/third year subjects, should consult the Head of Department.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

A critical study of classic political texts by Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes and Locke, with comparisons among them and with more recent writers. These texts contain many famous views and arguments, and raise various fundamental questions in political philosophy including those of the basis of political authority, the relationship between politics and morality, and the best form of government. The study of such classics develops our appreciation of historically important parts of Western thought, and contributes to a richer understanding of modern views and issues.

Assessment

One 2-hour end-of-semester examination, two essays of 1500 words each, and regular attendance and participation in tutorials.