Political Philosophy - Audio

by Steven B. Smith
70

(PLSC 114) This course is intended as an introduction to political philosophy as seen through an examination of some of the major texts and thinkers of the Western political tradition. Three broad themes that are central to understanding political life are focused upon: the polis experience (Plato, Aristotle), the sovereign state (Machiavelli, Hobbes), constitutional government (Locke), and democracy (Rousseau, Tocqueville). The way in which different political philosophies have given expression to various forms of political institutions and our ways of life are examined throughout the course.

This class was recorded in Fall 2006.

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  • PMRedruj
    Fascinating the way the lecturer brings these...
    ...far off thoughts to the present day, and makes them relatable and accessible, while presenting the profoundly deep questions. PLEASE, Yale: hire a qualified sound engineer, ok? This is the second Yale lecture with wild swings in audio quality for no reason other than carelessness.
  • Reviewer 1999
    Excellent
    This series of lectures does an excellent job covering some of the best writings in political philosophy. The professor is entertaining, insightful, and faithful to the material. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in philosophy or politics.
  • Crowbar Man
    Wonderful
    Dr. Smith presents an engaging lecture series where he connects a wide range of philosophers throughout history in a logical and interesting progression. His lectures inspire further series on the subject.
  • Dkpiatt
    Hilarious
    Mr. Smith has some great jokes when phones go off in the classroom.
  • theworldstage
    Good content, fatally quiet audio
    A strong survey course, but unless the listener is sitting down doing nothing but listening to it, he or she will find the audio levels extremely low.
  • dudewithaminivan
    Great lectures
    Focused, accessible, and engaging.
  • Coachjax5
    Great refresher
    Use these lectures in the summer before I start planning out unit plans for Civics and Law&Justice classes. Wish I’d been as interested in this content while an undergrad.
  • Philosophy junkie
    Wonderful lectures!
    These lectures are equally informing as they are entertaining! I never tire of these lectures. Professor Smith gives an insightful and elucidating introduction to political philosophy, hitting on all the greats and asking the key questions. It helps that Professor Smith is an excellent speaker with good vocal quality.
  • Chanle2
    CAH
    Enlightening and refreshing. Professor smith should be cloned so more students can get a different perspective from the usual political correctness which so threatens free speech. This is a tour of great minds and thoughts presented in a user friendly manner.
  • Coolaj1
    Interesting and thought provoking
    An excellent introduction to a broad and fascinating topic. I would love to see more classes by Dr. Smith.
  • hessianmercenary
    An exceptional class
    Steven Smith is a superb lecturer who never talks down to his class--indeed, expects quite a lot from his students, judging by this excellent course. Consistently intelligent and often acerbic. No dumbing down. Masterful pacing. Truly enjoyed the course
  • Codyevanfloyd
    Love it!
    These are great thanks!
  • JonathanSpring
    engineer
    Enlightening
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