MPS 001
Certainly! Here is a detailed description for the course MPS-001 (Political Theory) offered by IGNOU:
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### MPS-001: Political Theory
**Course Description:**
The course "Political Theory" (MPS-001) is a core subject in the Master's Program in Political Science (MPS) offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). This course provides an in-depth exploration of fundamental concepts, ideologies, and debates that shape political theory. It aims to develop a critical understanding of political ideas and their practical implications in contemporary society.
**Course Objectives:**
- To introduce students to the key concepts and themes in political theory.
- To analyze various political ideologies and their impact on political thought.
- To critically examine the contributions of prominent political theorists.
- To explore the application of political theory in understanding real-world political issues.
**Course Content:**
1. **Introduction to Political Theory:**
- Definition and scope of political theory.
- Relevance and significance of political theory in modern times.
- The relationship between political theory and political science.
2. **Key Concepts in Political Theory:**
- Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, and Democracy.
- The state and sovereignty.
- Power, authority, and legitimacy.
3. **Political Ideologies:**
- Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, and Feminism.
- Anarchism, Fascism, and Environmentalism.
- Postmodernism and multiculturalism.
4. **Classical Political Theorists:**
- Contributions of Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Marx.
- Analysis of their key texts and ideas.
- Their influence on contemporary political thought.
5. **Modern Political Theorists:**
- John Rawls, Robert Nozick, Michel Foucault, Jürgen Habermas, and others.
- Examination of their theories and contemporary relevance.
- Critical perspectives on modern political thought.
6. **Application of Political Theory:**
- Political theory in the context of globalization.
- Issues of social justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
- Political theory and public policy.
**Learning Outcomes:**
Upon completing this course, students will:
- Have a comprehensive understanding of major concepts and ideologies in political theory.
- Be able to critically analyze the works of key political theorists.
- Understand the relevance of political theory in addressing contemporary political and social issues.
- Develop the ability to engage in informed debates and discussions on political ideas and their implications.
**Study Material:**
- Self-instructional material provided by IGNOU.
- Recommended readings from primary and secondary sources.
- Multimedia resources, including video lectures and discussions.
**Assessment:**
- Assignments: Periodic assessments to evaluate understanding and analytical skills.
- Term-end Examination: Comprehensive exam to assess overall knowledge and critical thinking.
**Course Duration:**
- Minimum Duration: 2 Years
- Maximum Duration: 5 Years
**Eligibility:**
- Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized university.
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This description provides an overview of the MPS-001 course, including its objectives, content, learning outcomes, study materials, assessment methods, duration, and eligibility criteria.
