HPL2507

Politics and Society ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Keith Wilson

Offered:
Gippsland First semester 2006 (Day)
Gippsland First semester 2006 (OCL)
Singapore First semester 2006 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit introduces students to major political philosophers such as Hobbes, Locke, Mill, Marx and Burke. These studies will be linked to theories developed in support of autocratic, totalitarian, republican and democratic institutions, processes of politics and government. The main approaches to modern political analysis: pluralism, elitism and various forms of structuralism will be examined. The radical critics of modern society and politics, including feminists will be introduced. These will include Nietzsche, Foucault, Pateman, and Habermas.

Objectives: On successful completion of this Unit students are expected to be able to: 1. comment competently on major political theorists; 2. comment competently on the major debates in which contemporary thinkers are engaged in regarding politics, power, freedom, justice and citizenship; 3. employ a range of analytical skills and conceptual frameworks; 4. write well argued and competently written essays for assessment.

Assessment: Essay (2500 words) (on-campus include including oral presentation): 60% + Examination (2 hours): 40%

Contact Hours: 2 hours per week (1 hour lecture, 1 hour tutorial)

Prerequisites: HPL1503 and HPL1504 or equivalents

Prohibitions: GSC2507, HPL3507