This course is intended to provide students with a thorough historical survey of political theories which fundamentally inform the Western tradition. The core concepts of political philosophy will be examined through a close reading of primary texts. Students will be provided with a firm grounding in political theory through study and a critical discussion of these philosophical classics. Studied texts will include Plato's Republic, Aristotle's Politics, Machiavelli's Prince, Marx's Manifesto, and Rawls' Theory of Justice.

Note: 3 credits of Philosophy or Political Science is recommended as a prerequisite.


Credit Restriction: Credit may be obtained for only one of Philosophy 270 or Philosophy 470 or Political Science 270

Prerequisites: 2nd year standing required
Further information: Course availability and times