POL 315
COURSE GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
Pol 315-Theory and Practice of Marxism is a three (3)-credit unit
course for undergraduate students in Political Science. The materials
have been developed to meet global standards. This Course Guide gives
you an overview of the course. It also provides you with relevant
information on the organisation and requirements of the course.
COURSE AIMS
The aims of this course are to help you understand the fundamentals of
the theory and practice of Marxism. So, the course:
• provides you an opportunity to acquire a critical and analytical
mind for understanding conflict and change in society
• will expose you to the reality that every phenomenon is in a
dialectical tension which is the engine room for change and
development both in nature and in society
• will help you acquire the skills to evaluate and discuss Marxism
literature; you will also be able to appreciate and apply Marxian
concepts in case studies, geographical area studies, and current
world events which deal with conflict and change both in nature
and society.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
To achieve the aims set out in this course, POL 315-Theory and Practice
of Marxism has broad objectives. Each unit has specific objectives. The
unit objectives are at the beginning of each unit; it is important that you
read them before you start working through the unit. You may refer to
them in the course of the unit to check and monitor your progress. On
successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
• explain the origin and the dynamics of conflict in nature and in
society as inevitable
• define socialism
• describe dialectics which is the heart and soul of Marxism
• discuss Marxism and alienation and the meaning of ideology
• explain Marxist political economy, class struggle, revolution and
change.
WORKING THROUGH THIS COURSE
To complete the course, you are required to read the study units and
other related materials. You will also need to undertake practical
iv