Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - POL 801 G100

Epistemological and Theoretical Perspectives in Political Science (5)

Class Number: 4492

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an invitation to reflect on the reasons why certain methods are used in the contemporary study of politics—their epistemological justifications—rather than on the “nuts and bolts” in the researchers’ tool kit. Occasionally, however, we will delve into some technical questions (e.g., game theory) not covered in other methods courses offered by the Department.

The course begins with an overview of the most salient issues in the philosophy of social sciences (e.g., is antipositivism flogging a dead horse?), then turns to an analysis and comparison of inductive (causal inference), deductive (rational choice) and interpretive approaches. The latter stand opposition to the two others in that they do not seek so much to explain why political actors behave as they do as to understand how they find meaning in what they do. The course also examines the extent to which the new emphasis on experimental methods can help to bridge some of the divides among these approaches.

Grading

  • Research Paper 40%
  • Participation (including in-class presentations & written follow up) 30%
  • Short paper 30%

NOTES:

Students will write a major research paper (4,000 words) on a topic of their choice; a shorter paper (2,500 words) consisting of a critical analysis of the readings assigned for one of the weekly topics in the syllabus (or some combinations thereof). In addition, the participation grade will be based on i) two in-class oral presentations (and written follow-ups) consisting of a critical assessment of an article on the reading list; ii) an in-class presentation of their research proposal.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Relevant materials will be posted on Canvas or will be accessible on the SFU Library website.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.