Course content

This course provides a basic introduction to political theory. Its content will vary by semester, depending upon student demand and the available instructor. Possible subject include obligation, deliberation, representation, theories of the state, justice, etc. The objective of this seminar is to get students to think critically about the nature of politics and political relationships. The course is designed as a seminar, so a limit of 12 people will be set.

Learning outcome

Knowledge - the student shall:

• have detailed knowledge of the influential texts discussed in seminar and the specialized knowledge gathered from independent research

Skills - the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

• think critically about political concepts and develop their own rhetorical and deductive analytical skills

Learning methods and activities

2 hours of seminars per week throughout the semester. The first half of the course will consist of reading-based seminars, organized by the teacher, but without lectures. Students are expected to take responsibility for the course readings and be prepared to discuss them in seminar. The second half of the course will consist of student presentations, where groups of students take responsibility for the course content each week. The course will be conducted in either English or Norwegian, depending on the consensus. Compulsory assignments: 1) Students will be responsible for organizing a class discussion (1 hour) on a particular topic or theorist (to be chosen along with the teacher), 2) Term paper.

Compulsory assignments

• Term paper
• Organizing a class discussion

Further on evaluation

Evaluation form: Assignment. At the end of the semester, an independent research paper (under 9000 words) will be due.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

See formal requirements

Required previous knowledge

SOS1002 or an equivalent and one of the courses POL1000, POL1001, POL1002 or an equivalent. The requirement must be fulfilled to be admitted to the course.

Course materials

Provided at the start of the semester