Furman offers a range of introductory and upper-level courses in the history of the Western and American Traditions of political philosophy.
A survey of major political philosophers in which students consider alternative conceptions of reality as they come to light in ancient, medieval, and modern political orders.
Textual analysis of selected works by classical authors such as Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, and Aquinas. Requires prerequisite PSC-103 or PHL-101.
Textual analysis of works by authors such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rosseau, Burke, Marx, Mill, and Nietzsche. Requires prerequisite PSC-103 or PHL-101.
Analysis of the principles underlying American politics, focusing on textual analysis of the writings of America’s most influential statesmen, stateswomen, and public intellectuals.
Patterned on the model of a reading group, students will focus on a significant author or theme in the tradition of political philosophy. Readings will vary by year and instructor. (May Experience only). Requires prerequisite PSC-103 or PHL-101.
Examination of selected moral and political themes in light of the tradition of political thought, which combines classic texts with the writings of contemporary scholars and public intellectuals.