PHIL-297 Political Philosophy

Credits 3 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into RDNG-030 (ACSR-030), completion of ELAP-110 with a minimum grade of 2.0, or successful completion of RDNG-016 or ACLT-074 with a minimum grade of 3.0.
A survey and analysis of the theories arguments and concepts used in answering the basic normative questions of political philosophy: Why should people live in any society? Is there such a thing as legitimate power? If so to whom or what does it belong? What if any are the limits of power? What if any are the limits of freedom? The student will undertake an analysis of answers given by both traditional and contemporary philosophers.

Course Outcomes
NEW Students who successfully complete the course should be able to: • Identify core concepts, principles, and theories, in political philosophy. • Distinguish core concepts, principles, and theories, in political philosophy. • Outline core philosophical problems in political theory. • Assess philosophical problems in political theory • Critique various theories regarding political authority, democracy, liberty, justice, and property. • Interpret contemporary topics using concepts, principles, and theories, from political theory. • Evaluate contemporary topics using concepts, principles, and theories, from political theory. • Develop, express, and defend, their own views about the organization of society. • Formulate good arguments about theoretical and applied topics in political philosophy. • Debate theoretical and practical issues political issues in society.