Moral Foundations of Politics Course Syllabus

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the moral foundations that underpin political ideologies and systems. Over approximately 18 weeks with an estimated 14 hours of study per week, learners will engage with key political theories, from Enlightenment thought to modern democratic theory. The curriculum is structured into six modules, each focusing on a major tradition or theme in political philosophy, culminating in a final project that applies theoretical insights to real-world political issues. The course is designed for beginners but provides deep intellectual engagement through accessible, thought-provoking content.

Module 1: Enlightenment Political Theory

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Examination of Thomas Hobbes and the concept of political legitimacy
• John Locke’s theory of natural rights and government by consent
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the general will
• Influence of Enlightenment thinkers on modern political systems

Module 2: Utilitarianism and Social Justice

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Classical utilitarianism: Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill
• The greatest happiness principle and its moral implications
• Neoclassical utilitarianism and policy applications
• Critiques and limitations of utilitarian reasoning in politics

Module 3: Marxism and the Critique of Capitalism

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Karl Marx’s theory of class and historical materialism
• The concept of exploitation in capitalist systems
• Marx’s vision of a classless society
• Legacy of Marxist thought in contemporary political discourse

Module 4: The Social Contract and Justice

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau on consent and legitimacy
• Immanuel Kant’s moral foundations of political obligation
• John Rawls and the principles of fairness and equality
• Relevance of social contract theory to modern governance

Module 5: The Anti-Enlightenment Critique

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Edmund Burke’s critique of rationalism in politics
• Communitarian challenges to Enlightenment individualism
• Tradition, authority, and the limits of political reform
• Contemporary relevance of anti-Enlightenment thought

Module 6: Modern Democracy and Legitimacy

Estimated time: 42 hours

• Foundations of democratic governance
• Theories of legitimacy in modern states
• Challenges facing democracies today
• Democratic theory in practice: case studies and applications

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic concepts in political science or philosophy is helpful but not required
• Ability to engage with philosophical texts and abstract reasoning
• Proficiency in English reading and comprehension

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Analyze political ideologies through their moral foundations
• Apply philosophical theories to contemporary political issues
• Understand the historical development of modern political systems
• Evaluate the legitimacy of political institutions and policies
• Contribute to debates in public policy, law, and governance with a strong theoretical foundation