Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title THE SOCIAL CONTRACT: HOBBES, LOCKE AND RAWLS: INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL THEORY
Code CEPD5036
Coordinator Dr CG Jones
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
C.G.Jones2@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2021-22 Level 4 FHEQ Continuing Education Session 5

Aims

To introduce social contract theory in its three different aspects.

To reflect on criticism of social contract theory in the context of wider debate about the nature and legitimacy of the state.

To introduce the theory and methodology of political theory.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will possess a critical appreciation of the nature and significance of the social contract.

(LO2) Students will be able to evaluate criticisms of the social contract in the context of wider debate about the nature and form of legitimate government.

(LO3) Students will possess an introductory understanding of political theory and its methodology.

(S1) Lifelong learning skills

(S2) Communication skills

Syllabus
 

1. Introduction to social contract theory.

2. Constitutional contractarianism.

3. Civil contractarianism.

4. Moral contractarianism.

5. Critique of social contract theory.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Interactive, tutor-led lecture.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Group-work
Description: Class-based group work, e.g. examining given extracts/themes and completing set tasks.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Self-Directed Learning Description: Completion of set reading and tasks; research and writing of assessed essay.

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 5

         5

 10
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 40
TOTAL HOURS 50

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Essay There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  c 1500 words    100       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.

    Show/Hide 1

    show/hide text

    Show/Hide 2

    show/hide text

    Show/Hide 3

    Show/Hide text