PLSC 213 Introduction to Political Thought [GEKH]

Fundamental concepts, language and arguments in Western political thought from the Classical to the Contemporary post-9/11 world will be analyzed, focusing on the basic themes of: liberty, equality, justice, fairness, representation, and authority. This course meets the GE Requirement in the Humanities as well as being one of the core courses for the major in Political Science, Public Law, and Public Administration.

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall and Winter (in-person, occasionally online). May be offered online on occasion during the summer.

Prerequisites -
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Rationale for Knowledge of the Disciplines - This course introduces students to the philosophical approach to the discipline of political science. Through careful and exacting readings of primary texts, students are introduced to the body of philosophical thought on politics and governing that has developed over 2500 years, learn how philosophical knowledge of politics is developed and disseminated, and learn to develop their own questions and a method for seeking answers to those questions in the discipline. Through a combination of close readings of the texts and placing the text in the historical context, students will gain a basic knowledge of selective works in political philosophy including the ideas or doctrines contained in the practices and approaches used in this long tradition of political reflection.

Equivalent Course(s) -
Course History -

Political Science, Knowledge of the Disciplines - Humanities (GEKH)

Summer 2024 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections