This course will introduce students to some of the major themes and classic works of Western political philosophy. Focusing on a central theme (e.g. political obligation, human rights, equality), students will examine how that issue is addressed by some classic political philosophers such as Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx. They will also assess and debate contemporary US theory and practice with regard to the issue at hand. Prerequisite: Any 100 level or higher social science.Credits: 3