IR4006 - Thinking Politically

What will I learn on this module?

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the main thinkers, ideas and debates within political philosophy and political theory. The module differentiates between the different branches of politics (i.e. political economy, political philosophy and theory, and political science) before examining the debates about human nature; the nature of society without government; the arguments for and against democracy; justifying the existence of the state and state rule; liberty; equality; how to produce and distribute the goods and services that society needs and desires; and social justice. Furthermore, it links these debates – and the ideas and theories that inform them – to a range of contemporary political ideologies (e.g. conservatism, liberalism, feminism, etc.) and assesses the impact of these upon politics and society more generally.

How will I learn on this module?

The learning and teaching strategy will employ a variety of methods that are appropriate for Level 4 students. Directed learning will take the form of taught lectures in which the Module Tutor will set out the main topics, perspectives and debates, thus providing a framework for the student’s independent learning. These will be augmented by student-led seminars – small-group sessions that draw upon the student’s reading, review the existing literature, survey the historical and contemporary debates, and encourage critical thinking.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Via a module handbook with details of lectures, seminars, reading lists and assessment criteria; lecture PowerPoint slides made available on the e-learning portal; feedback during seminar sessions; opportunities to seek personalized support after lectures, seminars and/or specific appointments.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

1. Understand and critically appraise the main concepts, theories and debates within political philosophy and political theory, plus an appreciation of the value of a normative approach to studying politics.

2. Analyse and assess the impact of these concepts and theories, plus contemporary political ideologies, upon politics and society more generally.

3. Apply these concepts, theories and sets of ideas to help understand and explain contemporary political events and issues.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

4. Collaboration with peers to gather, organise and deploy arguments and supporting evidence; present, critique and debate such arguments and evidence.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)

5. Appreciation of team work.

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessment
Based upon

(a) 2,000 word essay at the end of Sem 1
(b) 2,000 word essay at the end of Sem 2

Formative assessment

Generalized feedback will be provided during the seminars when students will have the opportunity to clarify their understanding of the topics in preparation for completing the assessments.

Pre-requisite(s)

n/a

Co-requisite(s)

n/a

Module abstract

Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.

Course info

UCAS Code Z057

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Humanities and Social Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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