Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2019 - POL 312 D100

Modern and Contemporary Political Thought (4)

Class Number: 6165

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 8, 2019: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 24, 2019
    Wed, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    POL 210 or equivalent, or permission of the department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An exploration of selected political theories of justice.

COURSE DETAILS:

What is “modernity” and how does this concept contribute to an understanding of how political life has unfolded in the wake of the Enlightenment period, during which it took shape? Does “post-modernity” offer an alternative vision or merely a shift of emphasis? These questions will be discussed in relation to the writings of major thinkers from the 18th century onward. Modernity is closely associated with liberalism, a perspective according to which justice entails an adequate allocation of rights to freedom and equality. The thinkers discussed in this course have either worked within that broad and always evolving framework or have sought to challenge it.

There will be a two-hour lecture and an up to two hours discussion period.

Grading

  • Term paper (3,000 to 3,500 words) 40%
  • Mid-term exam 20%
  • Final Exam 30%
  • Participation 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

No required textbook; most of the readings are available on Canvas or through the Library.

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://www.sfu.ca/students/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