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Students of politics often believe that politics can be studied without theory. They take the view that we can focus upon the facts without worrying about ideas. But we should never underestimate how important theories and theorists are to professional politicians and other political actors. Just as in our everyday lives we are guided by notions of right and wrong, justice and injustice, so politicians are similarly guided. It is not a question of whether political actors follow theory, but a question of which theory or concept is supported when they present policies and undertake actions. We can argue as to whether the Pakistani or Indian prime minister acts according to the right political concepts, but it is undeniable that their actions are linked to theory. Humans in general cannot act without ideas: indeed, it is a defining property of human activity that we can only act when we have ideas in our head as to what we should do.
Having successfully completed the course, the students will be able to:
This module introduces political theory as a field of study and explains why political ideas matter in political life. Students explore the concept of the state and examine how political authority, power, and governance are theorized.
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This module examines key normative concepts that shape political thought, including freedom, equality, justice, democracy, citizenship, and punishment. Students analyze how these ideas influence political institutions, policies, and practices.
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This module explores major classical ideologies that have shaped modern politics, including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, anarchism, libertarianism, nationalism, and fascism.
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This module examines contemporary ideological movements and responses to social, cultural, and global challenges. Topics include feminism, multiculturalism, ecology, and fundamentalism, along with a guest lecture providing applied perspectives.
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This module focuses on key debates in contemporary political theory, including human rights, civil disobedience, political violence, identity and difference, and global justice.
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