Modern Political Thought (L2031)

15 credits, Level 5

Autumn teaching

On this module, you'll explore some of the most important texts in the history of western political philosophy, focusing on the work of seven major political thinkers. You'll gain knowledge of the broad contours of modern political thought from the seventeenth to the twentieth century.

You'll develop your ability to:

  • analyse philosophical arguments
  • situate the texts within their historical contexts
  • engage in close textual reading
  • understand the wider themes and concepts that shape modern political thought.

Teaching

50%: Lecture
50%: Seminar

Assessment

50%: Coursework (Essay)
50%: Examination (Distance examination)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We鈥檙e planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We鈥檒l make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.