Methods In Political Theory

AY2016/2017 Semester 1

Within the field of political theory, questions regarding method tend to be obscured or ignored by practitioners and students alike. This course will aim to correct this lack through introducing students to the most significant methodological approaches to the practice of political theory. We will examine both the theoretical assumptions guiding the various methods, as well as how the methods are concretely applied in the formulation and analysis of political thought. Examples of methodological traditions that will be studied include: analytic political philosophy, realism, esotericism, contextualism, dialectical analysis, standpoint theory, genealogy, deconstruction, and comparative political theory.