This minor provides students with an intensive study of political philosophy and political theory. Students take courses in the history of political philosophy; the moral evaluation of political institutions; the ethical, social, and political issues raised by globalization; and the conceptual foundations of democracy and human rights. Through this coursework, students are able to study this field from a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives. They develop a deeper philosophical perspective on political institutions and have a solid foundation for further graduate study in philosophy, government, or policy studies.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must complete all coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.00. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 18
Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.
Core Courses
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
Classical Western Political Theory | ||
or GOVT 323 | Classical Western Political Theory | |
Modern Western Political Theory | ||
or GOVT 324 | Modern Western Political Theory | |
Contemporary Western Political Theory | ||
or GOVT 327 | Contemporary Western Political Theory | |
Total Credits | 6 |
Electives
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Select two elective courses from the courses below or above (if not used to meet the core requirement): 1 | 6 | |
Karl Marx's Social and Political Thought | ||
Philosophy after Auschwitz | ||
Topics in Environmental Philosophy (Mason Core) | ||
Ethical Issues in Global Health | ||
Theories of Justice | ||
Advanced Topics in Social and Political Philosophy | ||
Select two elective courses from the courses below or above (if not used to meet the core requirement): 1 | 6 | |
Issues in Political Theories and Values | ||
American Political Thought | ||
Feminist Political Thought | ||
Advanced Democratic Theory | ||
Ethics and International Politics | ||
Total Credits | 12 |
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Special topics courses and independent studies courses, when relevant, may also be used to fulfill elective credits with prior written approval of the director.