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This course surveys major thinkers in modern political philosophy in the West. Attention is given to the historical context of thinkers, their influence on one another, and the contemporary relevance of their thought. Topics addressed will include the meaning and purpose of political philosophy; the modern critique of ancient philosophy and the new purpose of politics; the meaning and foundations of rights; the idea of social contract; the ideas of state sovereignty and individual autonomy; conceptions of human nature; the role of reason in politics; the role of nature and natural law in politics; the meaning of liberty; the concept of justice; the idea of representation; the place of history; the meaning of liberalism and the relationship between liberalism and democracy, the role of toleration; the status of the foundations of political orders; and pluralism.
COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion
Level: UGRD Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS GOVT Grading Mode: Graded
Prerequisites: NONE
Last Updated on MAR-24-2000
Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459