Undergraduate Prospectus 2020 Keele Undergraduate Propsectus 2020 | Page 269

Politics, Philosophy and International Relations | 279
Philosophy and Politics
BA (Hons)
Why study this course?
The combination of philosophy and politics allows you to explore and
understand power structures and institutions, the relationship between
the individual and the state, and to think critically about concepts such as
democracy, justice, power, authority and equality.
Philosophy and politics share a range of contemporary concerns,
including environmental matters, genetic engineering, and relationships
with the developing world. Philosophy also introduces you to more
general problems about knowledge, the nature of the world and the
mind, and to questions about beauty, consciousness and religion. You
will study these from both historical and contemporary perspectives,
critically considering the work of philosophers from around the world as
well as developing your own views. The clarity and precision provided by
a training in philosophical analysis complements the wide-ranging scope
of political concerns, many of which have profound ethical implications
of the kind dealt with in moral philosophy. You will be encouraged to
formulate and defend your own ideas, as well as to understand why
others disagree, and to present your position in a variety of ways.
What will this mean for my future?
You will learn to think critically, take a balanced approach, make
reasoned arguments and collaborate with colleagues. You will possess
a superb grounding in understanding the way people think and approach
problems, and will be able to communicate your ideas in a variety of
ways, including presentations, portfolios and written work. An optional
year studying abroad, or studying a language as part of the course can
further enhance your CV. The skills gained on a Philosophy and Politics
degree at Keele open the door to a wide range of careers, including
politics, law, the media, education, finance, publishing, the media, the
civil service, or working for a campaigning or lobbying group. Some
students also advance to further study.
INDICATIVE MODULES
First Year
• Ten Problems of Philosophy
• Ancient Philosophy
• How to Think
• British Politics since 1945
• Modern Democracies
• Justice, Authority and Power
Second Year
• The Pursuit of the Good
• Philosophy of Mind
• Knowledge and Reality
• Political Research in Practice
• Freedom and Equality
• Power to the People
Third Year
• The Meaning of Life
• Philosophy of Language
• Epistemology and Metaphysics II
• The Extreme Right in Western Europe
• Human Rights
• Contemporary Democratic Theory
KEY INFORMATION
UCAS Code - LV25
Foundation Year
Yes
Indicative entry
requirements
Combined Honours
A level: BCC-CCC
BTEC: DMM-MMM
Course duration
3 years or 4 years
with an international
year
Study abroad
Yes
International Year
Yes
Learn a Language
Yes
For information on courses that combine subjects please visit keele.ac.uk/ugcourses