No single course is capable of presuming to cover the broad scope of this endeavour, and no single individual is able to even begin to compress the sum of this tradition into the constricted space of an academic term. We offer here a simple prelude to that form of philosophia that directs itself toward the realm of the political. The student will comprehend the importance of the connection between these philosophical modalities and normative political concepts. be guided into a consideration of the nature of structuring principles, and in so doing inquire into the possibility, relevance, and effects, both conceptual and practical, of foundational ideas. One short essay assignment, 5-8 pages in length. This syllabus is subject to modification at the instructors discretion.
Modifications become official as they are announced in class.
Machiavelli and the Renaissance. A brief treatment of the political ideas formed duiring the Protestant Reformation. Fichte, St. Simone, Comte, and Fourier. English Utilitarianism and varieties of nineteenth century liberalism.