Syllabus
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This course is intended as an introduction to political philosophy as seen through an examination of some of the major texts and thinkers of the Western political tradition. The course will focus on three broad themes that are central to understanding political life: the <em>polis</em> experience (Plato, Aristotle), the sovereign state (Machiavelli, Hobbes), constitutional government (Locke), and democracy (Rousseau, Tocqueville). Particular attention will focus especially on the way in which different political philosophies have given expression to various forms of political institutions and our ways of life.
PLSC 114: Introduction to Political Philosophy (Fall, 2006)
Syllabus
Professor:
Steven B. Smith, Alfred Cowles Professor of Political Science, Yale University
Description:
This course is intended as an introduction to political philosophy as seen through an examination of some of the major texts and thinkers of the Western political tradition. Three broad themes that are central to understanding political life are focused upon: the polis experience (Plato, Aristotle), the sovereign state (Machiavelli, Hobbes), constitutional government (Locke), and democracy (Rousseau, Tocqueville). The way in which different political philosophies have given expression to various forms of political institutions and our ways of life are examined throughout the course.
Texts:
Plato, Trial and Death of Socrates
Plato, Republic
Aristotle, Politics
Machiavelli, The Prince
Thomas Hobbes, Leviathan
John Locke, Second Treatise of Government
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Political Writings
Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America
Requirements:
There will be three short papers (5-7 pages each) and a final exam. Attendance and participation in weekly discussion sections is a further requirement.
Grading:
Short papers: 20% each (total: 60%)
Final examination: 20%
Discussion section attendance and participation: 20%
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