Module description
How should power be understood and distributed within a city or a state? Is there a place in politics for truths, wisdom and expertise? What is the nature and what are the attractions and the pitfalls of democracy and of civic freedom? How do political theory and political practice relate to one another?
In this module, we will explore these and such questions in relation to some of the most fascinating and enduringly influential texts, thinkers and ideas in the history of Western thought. We will devote the lion’s share of our time to an in-depth study of the political theory of Plato’s Republic, exploring such themes as civic poetry and education; gender, eugenics and the family unit; wealth and power; the connections between flawed constitutions and flawed souls, as well as, of course, Plato’s idea of Philosopher Kings and his critique of democracy. We will also, however, situate Plato’s reflections in a broader tradition and explore key aspects of political thought in earlier poets (such as Homer and Solon), historians (such as Thucydides) and sophists (such as Protagoras). Finally, we will examine some of the notable modern responses to Plato’s political philosophy.
Teaching pattern
10 x 2-hour lecture (weekly)