The purpose of this course is for the student to develop a broad understanding of the relationship between education and politics. In addition, the purpose is for the student to develop an understanding of education as political activity, as a means for political governance, as a preparation for a future political life, and as a non-political project.

The course introduces key concepts and ideas of educational theory and political philosophy, focusing on the relationship between education and politics in different contexts. A central part of the content concerns tensions between the state, other political actors, public educational institutions and practices. The course also encompasses a discussion about the relationship between education and democracy and between personal autonomy and social dependence.

Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to

1. Explain and critically scrutinize pedagogical and political theories about the relation between education and politics from historical and contemporary perspectives;

2. Analyze the relation between education as a project of individual emancipation and as a social political project;

3. Analyze discussions of education as a means for political change in different contexts.

The course is based on regular lectures, seminars and practical exercises. There will be opportunities for feedback between the students throughout the course.

Test 1: Written exam, 10 credits. This test will examine the intended learning outcomes 1 and 2.

Test 2: Written exam, 5 credits. This test will examine the intended learning outcome 3.

The course coordinator will provide information about grading criteria at the start of the course.

It must be possible to distinguish between individual performances for all assessments.

Arendt, Hannah (2006). Between Past and Future: Eight Exercises in Political Thought. London: Penguin (298 p.)

Hobbes, Thomas (2008). Leviathan. Oxford: Oxford University Press (100 p. selection)

Mouffe, Chantal (2005). On the Political. London: Routledge (160 pp.)

Plato (2007). The Republic. London: Penguin Classics (480 pp.)

Rawls, John (2005). A Theory of Justice. Cambridge, Mass: Harvard University Press (100 pp. selection)

Rousseau, Jean-Jacques (2004). The Social Contract. London: Penguin (176 pp.)

Spinoza, Benedict (2007). Theological-Political Treatise. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (100 pp. selection)

Wollstonecraft, Mary (2004). A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. London: Penguin (144 pp.)

Plus a selection of academic papers (approx. 200 pp.)

Students who participate in or complete a course must be given the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback on the course via a course evaluation issued by the University. The University will compile the course evaluations and provide information regarding the results and any measures taken as a result of the course evaluation. Results will be made available to the students. (Higher Education Ordinance 1:14).

Teaching is given in English.