POSC232L - Classical Political Thought

3 Credit(s)

Liberal Arts
Classical political thought provides an overview of great political thinkers and the significant contributions they made to the development of western civilization. This course focuses on rich contributions from the ancient and medieval worlds and concludes by studying some of the world views which emerged from the changes that took place in 15th and 16th century Europe. Western political thought has deep roots and this course gives one the chance to appreciate the exciting clash of ideas that flows from those roots. Consideration of early ideas on constitutionalism, church-state relations and the basic relations between individuals and their rulers will be addressed. Among those whom we shall consider are the following: Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Jesus, Augustine, Aquinas, Machiavelli, Luther. Among the issues raised are the following: Should we obey governments; what is the origin of political society; what constitutes good government; how should church and state relate; do people have the right to revolt; who should rule; rights & duties in political society.

Offered When: Biennially.
Prerequisite(s): POSC 112L