136-076 Social Theory and Political Analysis

Formerly available as 136-259/359. Students who have completed 136-259/359 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 50 points of first-year arts subjects.

This subject involves the study of theory and empirical research in social and political relations, culture and ideology, and human subjectivity and action. Students who complete this subject should possess an awareness of the ways in which social theory can provide a critical perspective on standard approaches to the study of politics, and knowledge of a repertoire of social theory concepts and approaches which can be drawn upon to analyse political processes.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• be able to conduct independent research;

• be able to make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• be able to form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

An oral presentation of a 400 word tutorial paper 10, an essays of 1600 words 30 (due mid-semester), a second essay of 2000 words 50 (due during the examination period), class participation and contribution 10.