YFIM6003 Greek political thought and its modern echos (2–4 cr)

Target group:

This course is ideal for undergrad students majoring in Political Science or Philosophy, as well as more advanced students from other fields of the human sciences.

Course description:

This course examines and assesses the continuing relevance of vocabulary and points of view on politics inherited from Greek philosophy. Through critical study of concepts such as democracy, tyranny – and indeed politics itself – we will try to gain historically informed perspectives on modern political history and contemporary politics. We will also study some of the 20th century thinkers who have advocated a “return” to ancient political thought.

Assessment:

Active participation in the lectures and writing a learning log on topics related to the course (for 2 ECTS) and a short essay on a more specific topic (for 4 ECTS).

Grading:

0-5

Timing:

Week III: 7 - 11 June 2021

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this course, the student is able to appreciate and evaluate the relevance of Greek political thought in the context of the high points of modern political history

Preliminary readings:

at least one of the following:

• Aristotle: Politics, book 3
• Leo Strauss, Natural Right and History, chapter 1
• Hannah Arendt, The Human Condition, chapter 5