This course provides students with an introduction to some of the most important concepts and categories basic to the study of western political thought, such as justice, power, freedom, citizenship, revolution, political obligation and oppression. In this course we will examine the ways in which the authors we will be reading addressed questions such as: what do we mean by justice? what is the state and who is fit to hold power? when is freedom best secured, and how? is it better to have order as a political ideal, or liberty? should citizens or subjects always obey the state? are there any fundamental rights that all political orders should preserve, protect and defend? when, if ever, is violence or revolution justified? and, how should we understand and address oppression? The approach to this course emphasizes the importance of understanding these works in the context in which they were written and the purposes for which they were put by their authors, yet, we will also explore the ways in which these texts may be used to help us better understand and think critically about some of the problems that concern us today.

In addition to the above texts, students will be required to read selections from three works which are on reserve at Wilson library, west bank.

In addition to the two written assignments and the final exam (described below), students are expected to complete the readings by the dates indicated on the syllabus. The lectures will not simply rehash the readings for the course, so you should not consider one to be a substitute for the other. It is important to keep up with the readings from week to week, and to come to class prepared to raise questions and participate in class discussions. I will make reading guides available for each set of assigned readings. Bring the texts that are relevant to the particular week's readings to class.

1. A first mid-term paper, 4-5 pages -- typed, double-spaced.
Due Date: Tuesday, April 27
2. A second mid-term paper, 4-5 pages -- typed, double-spaced.
Due Date: Tuesday, May 25
3. A final examination (essay and short answer) closed book, no notes.

Paper topics will be distributed in class one week before the paper is due. The papers will ask you to compare the writings of two theorists with respect to particular concepts and themes discussed in class and in the readings. Note: these are not research papers--you are not required to read material not assigned for this class. In these papers, you will be asked to draw upon the assigned readings and to bring your own ideas and commentaries to bear upon the topic in question. Completion of all three assignments is a necessary (although not a sufficient) condition for passing the course.

A note on the final exam: The best way to prepare for the final exam is to do the readings as they are assigned and to complete the written assignments. Preparing answers to the questions on the study guides and reviewing both the texts and your lecture notes will also help to prepare you for the exam.