What should a democracy look like? Can an unequal society be just? When is it legitimate to resist governments? By introducing you to debates regarding foundational issues in political theory, this module develops your ability to understand and critically assess debates about ideas that have shaped today's political world, such as democracy, freedom, equality and justice. You will gain knowledge of foundational ideas and thinkers in political thought, and develop the ability to critically reflect upon, and construct arguments to defend, your own answers to crucial questions about the nature of politics.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Compulsory to the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Foundation Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in North America
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Continental Europe
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Quantitative Research
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Quantitative Research With a Placement Year
Optional to the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Language
• BA (Hons) History and Politics
• BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics
Also available as an elective module
Main assessment methods
• Social Media Project 20%
• Essay (2,000 words) 80%*
*This element is pass compulsory and must be passed to achieve the learning outcomes of the module
Reassessment methods
• 100% Coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Understand concepts and theories used in the study of politics;
2 Understand how concepts and theories in the study of politics are supported by different types of argumentation characteristic of political theory;
3 Evaluate different interpretations of political issues by critically assessing descriptive and normative arguments in political theory;
4 Apply concepts from political theory to the analysis of political ideas, institutions and practices, relative to the historical and contemporary context;
5 Describe, evaluate and apply different approaches to collecting, analysing and presenting political information, particularly by developing well supported theoretical arguments.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
