Political and Social Philosophy

Phil. 4600
FALL 2007
11-12:15 TR

PLAN: This is an introductory course in political philosophy. Our aim will be to become acquainted with the central theories in contemporary political philosophy -- utilitarianism, liberalism, libertarianism, socialism, feminism and communitarianism --- and then to see how each deals with a particular political issue.

TEXTS

Kymlicka, Will. Contemporary Political Philosophy. Oxford U. Press, 2^nd edition

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1. EXAMS: A midterm exam (28%) and a final exam (30%). (Details will be discussed in class).
2. PAPER: One paper, 6 to 8 pages (30%). (Details will be discussed in class).
3. CLASS PREPARATION: (12%) Twelve (12) 1-2 page typed analyses of the readings. These must be turned in to my mailbox in room 436 GCB before 5:00 pm prior to the class in which we will begin discussing the reading (usually on Mondays; see due dates below). No credit of any kind will be given for analyses turned in after this time. In these analyses, (a) summarize the main issue, question or topic the author is addressing; (b) the main position the author takes on that issue; and (c) explain at least one main reason why the author holds that main position. These will not be graded, but merely given a check or minus; no credit will be given for missing, obviously half-hearted or partially completed summaries.

LINKS

UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

SCHEDULE OF TOPICS AND READINGS

This information is available in alternative formats upon request. If you have a disability and need accommodations, please notify me as soon as possible. You may also contact the Access Office, A048 Brady Commons, 882-4696.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Students' presence during examinations carries the responsibility of cooperating with examination procedures and avoiding even the appearance of academic dishonesty. Instances of academic dishonesty, either in examinations or paper assignments, will result in a zero score and will be reported in accordance with University regulations. Copying from others, displaying a test for others to see, attempting to communicate in any manner with another student during an exam, plagiarism or irregularities in research participation materials are among those behaviors that will result in a zero score for any students involved and will also be reported to University officials.

SOME GUIDELINES ON PAPERS

Plagiarism includes more than directly copying another person's paper. Copying or paraphrasing sentences, paragraphs or sections from books or other sources is also plagiarism. Every idea that you use from another author, from a book or article, must be cited properly (in a footnote, for example). Put quotation marks around material you use if it is taken word for word. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, ASK ME.