Discussion board [20%, Learning Outcomes 1-4]
Journal article review with set questions[40%: 1,500 words, Learning Outcomes 1-4]
Critical Essay [40%; 1,500 words, Learning Outcomes 1-4] (Final work)

The module introduces students to a range of important political thinkers, to some of the major political ideologies and to the key concepts of political theory. The aims are to facilitate an understanding of some of the most influential ideas and tenets in the history of political thought; to help develop an appreciation of the lasting influence of the thinkers, ideologies and concepts upon political discussion, decisions and policies; and to encourage analysis of the key ideas, tenets and arguments, considering their significance today.

1. DEMONSTRATE AN APPRECIATION OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PARTICULAR POLITICAL THINKERS AND IDEOLOGIES AND THEIR KEY IDEAS, CONCEPTS AND TENETS.
Knowledge and Understanding

2. COMPARE AND CONTRAST THE WORK OF POLITICAL THINKERS AND THE PROMINENT IDEOLOGIES. Enquiry
Analysis

3. ANALYSE DEBATES ABOUT POLITICAL THOUGHT, IDENTIFYING STRENGTHS AND PROBLEMS WITH IDEAS, CONCEPTS AND IDEOLOGIES
Analysis
Communication

4. APPLY ACADEMIC SKILLS AND INTELLECTUAL ABILITY IN THE ANALYSIS OF POLITICAL IDEAS. Application

The learning materials and items we advise you to read for each topic introduce the main themes and arguments of the module content. This helps you to develop definitions, and to compare, contrast and analyse ideas and ideologies in the history of political thought. The discussion board forums provide for discussion and analysis of the themes. The independent study element should be used for further reading and preparation of the written assignments.

Students’ own textbooks; supplied course packs of readings; e-books; e-journals; relevant websites.
Blackboard VLE
Computer with internet access

Bevir, M. ed (2010) Encyclopedia of Political Theory (Sage) [e-book]
Klosko, G (2013) History of Political Theory, An Introduction: Volume II: Modern, 2nd ed. (Oxford University Press) [e-book]
Heywood, A (2015) Political Theory, 3rd ed (Palgrave Macmillan) [e-book]