What This Document Is
This is the official syllabus for Political Philosophy (PHILOS 115) at the University of California, Berkeley. It outlines the course structure, expectations, and schedule for a semester-long exploration of foundational political thought. This syllabus serves as a comprehensive guide for students enrolled in, or considering enrollment in, the course.
Why This Document Matters
This document is essential for anyone interested in understanding the requirements and scope of this upper-division political philosophy course. It’s particularly valuable for prospective students deciding if the course aligns with their academic interests and for enrolled students needing a clear roadmap for success. Reviewing the syllabus *before* the course begins will help you prepare for the workload and understand how your performance will be evaluated.
Topics Covered
* Core concepts in political philosophy and their distinction from political science.
* Theories of justice and fairness.
* Social contract theory and its historical interpretations.
* Libertarianism and its challenges to prevailing political philosophies.
* The role of natural endowment and legitimate expectations in political thought.
* The application of philosophical principles to contemporary political issues.
* Detailed examination of the work of a major political philosopher.
What This Document Provides
* Course logistics: meeting times, location, and instructor contact information.
* A detailed breakdown of assessment components and their weighting towards the final grade.
* A week-by-week schedule of topics and assigned readings.
* Information regarding required course materials and where to obtain them.
* Policies regarding section participation, paper submissions, and exam preparation.
* Guidance on accessing support from the Graduate Student Instructor (GSI).