AP/POLS2900 6.0 A: Perspectives on Politics
Offered by: POLS
(Cross-listed to: AP/PPAS2900 6.0A )
Session
Summer 2019
Term
SU
Format
LECT
Instructor
Calendar Description / Prerequisite / Co-Requisite
Examines answers to critical questions concerning the nature and purposes of political life though a survey of classical works from Western political thought.
Course Website
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COURSE DIRECTOR: DR. MICHELLE MAWHINNEY
OFFICE: S623 Ross
CONTACT: mmawhin@yorku.ca
This course develops a general model of the state and the political system through a survey of the principle texts of the leading philosophers in the tradition of western political theory, from classical Athens to the nineteenth century: Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Wollstonecraft and J.S. Mill. Through a study of these writings, the concepts of justice and the good life, virtue, freedom, equality, citizenship and political obligation will be explored. The roots of contemporary political values, such as human rights, economic justice, democracy and personal liberty will also be examined. Emphasis will be placed on understanding political theories within larger philosophical frameworks and against their historical backgrounds. In addition, the continued relevance of these theories to contemporary political thought will be considered.
Grade Breakdown:
Short Essay (3-4 pages) 15%
Mid-term Test (in-class) 15%
Longer Essay (6-8 pages) 30%
Final Exam (Exam Period) 25%
Participation (Tutorial) 15%
- Academic Honesty
- Student Rights and Responsibilities
- Religious Observance
- Grading Scheme and Feedback
- 20% Rule
No examinations or tests collectively worth more than 20% of the final grade in a course will be given during the final 14 calendar days of classes in a term. The exceptions to the rule are classes which regularly meet Friday evenings or on Saturday and/or Sunday at any time, and courses offered in the compressed summer terms. - Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
