Classical Thinkers and Current Events (L2014N)

15 credits, Level 4

Spring teaching

This module introduces you to classical political theorists from around the world. You will study Confucius, Hobbes, Kautilya, Vitoria, Ibn Khaldun, Marx and others. Through these authors, you explore a rich variety of international politics concepts. You will also explore how their work can be used to justify or criticise policies in international affairs. 

Topics covered include:

  • terror and just war
  • the rise of China
  • Black Lives Matter
  • Brexit
  • humanitarian intervention
  • the clash of civilizations.

Teaching

100%: Lecture

Assessment

100%: Coursework (Essay)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 22 hours of contact time and about 128 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: