Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2017 - POL 210 F100

Introduction to Political Philosophy (3)

Class Number: 7734

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 7, 2017: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 12, 2017
    Wed, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    David Sanschagrin

  • Prerequisites:

    POL 100 or 101W or permission of department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of concepts presented by the major political thinkers of the western world. The course surveys those ideas which remain at the root of our political institutions, practices and ideals against a background of the periods in which they were expressed. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

Through an analysis of major modern political ideologies, this course introduces students to important concepts for the understanding and study of contemporary politics in the Western World, and particularly in Canada. It explores the main ideas associated with the different ideological families and political currents as well as their differences and oppositions. The focus will be put on the main contributors (philosophers and politicians) for each of these families and their contemporary relevance.

There will be a 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial each week.  Tutorials start in Week Two.

Grading

  • Participation 10%
  • Critical Commentary 30%
  • Critical Analysis of a Political Program or Policy 30%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Danic Parenteau et Ian Parenteau (2008), Les idéologies politiques : le clivage gauche-droite, Québec, Presses de l’Université du Québec.
ISBN: 978-2-7605-1585-7

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.
For details, see http://www.sfu.ca/politics/undergraduate/program/related_links.html and click on “Plagiarism and Intellectual Dishonesty” .

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS