Social and Political Theory 2 (SP0079)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 8 ? Acronym : SPS-2-SCHTH2h

This course examines a number of fundamental questions in social and political theory, such as the existence and character of "human nature", the merits and defects of capitalism, the distinguishing features of modern society, the tensions between utilitarian and rights-based judgements, and the implications of Enlightenment conceptions of knowledge and freedom. It does so by focusing on the competing claims of historically influential theorists such as Hobbes, Rousseau, Smith, Marx, Mill, Nietzsche, Weber and Durkheim, whose ideas continue to inform contemporary social and political debates.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : May normally be taken only in conjunction with at least one of European Social Policy 2, Politics 2, Social Anthropology 2 or Sociology 2.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

School (School of Social and Political Studies), (School of Social and Political Studies, Schedule J)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 2nd year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 3 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
08/01/2007	16:10	17:00	Lecture Theatre, George Square Theatre	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	16:10	17:00	Central
Lecture	Thursday	16:10	17:00	Central

? Additional Class Information : Plus tutorials.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course students should:
- have become familiar with some of the key claims and concepts in the work of historically influential social and political theorists;
- acquired the exegetical skills and contextual knowledge necessary to understand intellectually demanding theoretical facts;
- developed their ability to engage critically with theoretical concepts and arguments, and to understand their relevance to contemporary social and political debates.

Assessment Information

One two hour examination, two coursework assignments of 1000 words or equivalent. The examination mark contributes 50% and the coursework 50% in arriving at the final mark. Students are required to pass the exam to pass the course.