POL 340 - Classical Political Thought

3 credit(s)
Area/Group Designation: Political Theory

This course explores the relationship between human beings, the state, and society from Homer through the medieval monks. Since Socrates famously called “philosophy down from the heavens” this course begins with the ancient Greeks and Romans, but explores the themes and problems of classical political thought through a variety of genres and authors. Students consider the description of human nature and the good society, the relationship between the individual and society, and the laws, order and conception of justice shaping that relationship. Students also look for overlap between contemporary political problems and the questions and answers posed by classic authors. This course satisfies a writing-intensive requirement when listed as POL 340W.
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore or higher standing or permission of instructor.

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