What you will learn in Moral Foundations of Politics Course
- Enlightenment Political Theory: Examine the legitimacy of governments through the lens of Enlightenment thinkers like Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, and their influence on modern political thought.
- Utilitarianism: Explore classical and neoclassical utilitarianism, focusing on the greatest happiness principle and its application in contemporary politics.
- Marxism: Analyze Marx’s critique of capitalism, the theory of exploitation, and the legacy of Marxist thought in modern political discourse.
- Social Contract Tradition: Delve into the theories of consent and justice as proposed by Hobbes, Locke, Kant, and Rawls, and their relevance to current political structures.
- Anti-Enlightenment Thought: Understand critiques of Enlightenment ideals, including perspectives from figures like Edmund Burke and contemporary communitarians.
- Democratic Politics: Investigate the foundations of democratic governance, the concept of legitimacy, and the challenges faced by modern democracies.
Program Overview
Introduction to Political Philosophy
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Overview of key political philosophers and their influence on contemporary political systems.
Utilitarianism and Social Justice
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Deep dive into utilitarianism and its role in shaping policies aimed at maximizing overall happiness.
Marxism and the Critique of Capitalism
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Explore Marx’s theory of class, exploitation, and the vision of a classless society.
The Social Contract and Justice
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Study the social contract theory as it applies to modern political philosophy, with focus on consent, fairness, and equality.
The Anti-Enlightenment Critique
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Examine critiques of Enlightenment principles, including the arguments posed by figures like Edmund Burke.
Modern Democracy and Legitimacy
3 weeks (14 hours per week)
-
Understand the theory of democracy and the concept of legitimacy in modern political systems.
Get certificate
Job Outlook
- Proficiency in Political Theory is valuable for roles such as:
- Political Scientist
- Policy Analyst
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Academic in Political Science
- Skills acquired in this course are applicable across sectors like government, international organizations, NGOs, and think tanks.
- Completing this course provides a foundation for deeper studies in political philosophy and helps in critical roles related to public policy, political strategy, and governance.
Last verified: March 12, 2026
