Topics in Political Philosophy
About the course
Mandatory course in the master’s program in philosophy. Can also be taken as a single course.
In this course, students have the opportunity to investigate in depth a selection of current debates in political philosophy. For example:
- Minority rights: Understanding the case for group-differentiated rights, how to interpret diversity, inclusion and accommodation with respect to (for example) ethnic, religious and gender minorities.
- Migration and refugee rights: Understanding tensions between state’s right to control its borders and freedom of movement, bases for duties towards refugees, ethics of e.g. temporary migration and brain-drain.
- Democracy: Understandings of arguments for and against democracy, different models of democracy, and 21st century challenges to democracy.
- Free speech: Philosophical justifications of free speech and debates about its moral and legal limits.
- Territorial and natural resource rights: Justifying state and sub-state claims to territory and natural resources, managing conflicts.
- Politics in the Anthropocene: Politics and responsibility in the 21st century where humans’ ecological footprints are becoming increasingly visible.
- Justice with respect to the past and future: How to understand and respond to historic injustices and how to understand justice to future generations.
This course offers a research-based exploration of selected topics in political philosophy. Drawing on themes and debate as the above mentioned, students will critically examine key texts and arguments, develop their own analyses, and explore how political philosophy can inform - and be informed by - real-world issues. The specific topics may vary from year to year, depending on the area of expertise of the lecturer, and the students’ interests.
Admission requirements
Bachelor’s degree with a specialization of at least 80 ECTS in philosophy or equivalent. A basic knowledge of history of philosophy is recommended.
Application code 9371
Objectives of the course
Knowledge
The student has
- a broad overview of three central themes in political philosophy.
- advanced knowledge of selected theories and issues within each theme, including current cutting-edge research.
Skills
The student can
- develop an independent project which presents a distinctive and original argument connected to one of the three selected themes.
- analyze and critique detailed normative arguments and consider strengths and weaknesses of key theories in political philosophy.
- take part in research related activities, including presenting one’s own work in progress, drafting and revising arguments, and giving critical but constructive feedback on others’ work.
Competence
The student is able to
- apply philosophical frameworks to analyze current political and social issues.
- contribute to political debates.
- analyze long and detailed written arguments.
- present clearly and explain terminology and theories to both experts and non-experts.
- develop an original and substantive point of view and defend it both orally and in writing.
Prerequisites
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
FIL-1022 Political Philosophy, FIL-1023 Feminist Philosophy
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
Lecturing: English
Exam: English, Norwegian, or other Scandinavian language
Schedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Information to incoming exchange students
This course is open to incoming exchange students.
Study Level: Master's
This course has admission prerequisites, which are listed under the Admission requirements section. Please review this information carefully before adding the course to your Learning Agreement.
For details on how to apply for exchange, course selection guidelines, or to contact the Incoming Admissions Team, please visit: Admissions for Student Exchange.
Examination
| Oral exam | Duration: 30 Minutes Weighting: 1/1 |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
| Term paper | Weighting: 0/1 |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Written essay/presentation | Grade: Approved – not approved |
Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage
More info about the coursework requirements
The student must either complete a written essay (1200 - 1600 words (3-4 pages) or give an oral presentation (15 minutes) of the topic and problem for the term paper within a given deadline.More info about the assignment
Individual term paper of 3200 - 4000 words (8-10 pages). The topic and problem for the term paper are clarified with the lecturer(s).
Your term paper is the foundation of the exam. It is graded on how well you:
- Show understanding of the relevant knowledge and theories.
- Build convincing and well-structured arguments.
- Present your ideas clearly and precisely.
More info about the oral exam
Individual oral exam of 30 minutes where both the term paper and other parts of the syllabus are discussed.
The oral exam is an opportunity to further develop and defend your work. The grade you received on the term paper can be adjusted here, primarily based on:
- How well you can explain and justify the theoretical choices and arguments made in your term paper.
- How well you can show critical knowledge of the course topics discussed in class and covered in the syllabus.