Module description
The Idea of Freedom. This module explores each of three major philosophical traditions of theorising political freedom: the ‘negative’ tradition, which takes freedom to be the absence of coercion or constraint; the ‘republican’ tradition, which takes freedom to be the absence of dominating power; and the ‘positive’ tradition, which takes freedom to be reason, authenticity, or human flourishing. It examines both historical and contemporary exponents of these traditions and their critics, as well as engaging more specific political questions about freedom such as: What is the relationship between freedom and democracy? Does equal liberty entail equality in access to material resources? Does propaganda reduce freedom and, if so, how? Can freedom be undermined by the internalisation of oppressive or unjust social norms?
Assessment details
- Summative assessment: 1 x 3,000 word essay (100%)
- Formative assessment: 1 x 2,500 word essay
Educational aims & objectives
- To examine a key topic in political philosophy and relevant philosophical literature.
- To think about the contribution philosophy can and should make regarding questions of policy.
- To consider the strengths and limitations of current approaches.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module the students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practicable skills appropriate to a Level 6 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate:
- A good understanding of the central debates and core readings.
- The ability to critically assess the arguments in question.
Teaching pattern
One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks
Suggested reading list
Core reading