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2 POLI 341: ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL POLITICAL POLI 341: ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL POLITICAL For Undergraduates Level 300 DR. EVANS AGGREY-DARKOH & MR. ALEX D. KAKYIRE FRIMPONG DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF GHANA, LEGON 1

3 Acknowledgements Special mention must be made of Mr Kwesi Botchway, a Teaching Assistant of the Department of Political Science, who played a critical role in the development and editing of this study guide, the design of the course slides and presentation of the course module on the University of Ghana Sakai Learning Management System. godsonug.wordpress.com/blog

4 CONTENTS Session 1: The Nature and Scope of Political Theory Session 2: Greek Political and Social Classes Session 3: Plato s Theory of Justice and the Ideal State Session 4: Plato Theories of Education, Communism and The Philosopher King Session 5: Aristotle s Background, Defense of Slavery and the Naturalness of the State Session 6: Aristotle s Rule of Law and Defense of Private Property Session 7: Background of the Stoics Session 8: Cicero Session 9: Seneca Session 10: St. Augustine Session 11: St. Aquinas Session 12: Niccolo Machiavelli s Italy And The State Session 13: Niccolo Machiavelli s Religion, Morality and the Newly Conquered State COURSE DESCRIPTION COURSE WEBSITE INSTRUCTORS Support Contact Information OVERVIEW 8 5. PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING APPROACH COURSE FORMAT LEARNING OUTCOMES KNOWLEDGE SKILLS COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT Individual Assignments Group Term Paper RECOMMENDED TEXT DETAILED CLASS SCHEDULE SCHEDULE OF SESSIONS

5 11. SESSION 1 THE NATURE AND SCOPE OF POLITICAL THEORY Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 2 ANCIENT GREEK POLITICAL AND SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS 2.1 Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 3 PLATO S THEORY OF JUSTICE AND THE IDEAL STATE Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 4 PLATO THEORIES EDUCATIOIN, COMMUNISM AND PHILOSOPHER KING 4.1 Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 5 ARISTOTLE S BACKGROUND, DEFENSE OF SLAVERY AND THE NATURALNESS OF 5.1 Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 6: ARISTOTLE S DEFENSE OF PRIVATE PROPERTY. 6.1 Overview 6.2 Goals and Objectives 6.3 Activities and Assignments SESSION 7 BACKGROUND OF THE STOICS 7.1 Overview 7.2 Goals and Objectives

6 7.3 Activities and Assignments SESSION 8 CICERO Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 9 SENECA Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 10 ST. AUGUSTINE Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 11 ST. AQUINAS Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 12- MACHIAVELLI S ON THE STATE AND RELIGION Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments SESSION 13 NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI S CONCERN FOR RULERS, MORALITY AND THE NEWLY CON 13.1 Overview Goals and Objectives Activities and Assignments

7 APPENDIX A

8 COURSE DESCRIPTION 1. COURSE WEBSITE 2. INSTRUCTORS Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darkoh Department of Political Science University of Ghana P. O. Box LG 64 Legon, Accra Office:13 Department of Political Science MR. ALEX D KAAKYIRE FRIMPONG Department of Political Science University of Ghana P. O. Box LG 64 Legon, Accra 3. Support Contact Information School of Continuing and Distance Education University of Ghana P. O. Box XXXXXXX Legon, Accra 6

9 Phone: XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX 7

10 4. COURSE OVERVIEW Welcome to POLI 341: Ancient and Medieval Political Thought. We are happy that you have decided to offer this course at this level. As a student of politics, one of the courses you will have to master very well is this course because it offers you a unique opportunity to have a firm grounding in political theory. Congratulations! You have chosen the most exciting course for study. Most of you might have heard about the course Ancient and Medieval Political Thought. Whatever be the case, you will find it an interesting course. This course studies the writings of various political thinkers in the ancient and medieval times. Plato and Aristotle represent the ancient (Greek) era; Cicero, Augustine and Aquinas, the medieval (Roman) era; while Machiavelli, strictly a modern political thinker is studied here for the bridge he provides between the medieval and the modern. The historical contexts within which each thinker wrote would be carefully considered and the relevance of their thoughts to contemporary politics would be carefully examined. At the end of the course students should have a critical understanding of the main text and ideas of ancient and medieval political thought, the controversies surrounding them and how they relate to modern politics. Men, like other animals, constantly face myriad problems of adaptation to the conditions of life on this earth. for the human animal adaptation includes the means of discovering and inventing ways and means of dealing with nature, other men and with the inner man. political and social organization the customs, practices, and procedures that that hold men together in interrelated groups is perhaps the most important form of human adaptation to environment. Unlike other animals, man has social life and the capacity to organize it effectively for survival purposes. Political theory is simply man s attempts to consciously understand and solve the problems of his group life and organization. Thus, the history of political thought consists of the evolution of men s thoughts about political problems. History of political thought is an integral part of politics. It is produced as part of the social milieu in which politics itself has its being, reflections on the ends of political action, upon the means of achieving them, upon the possibilities and necessities of political situations, and upon 8

11 obligations that political purposes impose is an intrinsic element of the whole political process. Such thought evolves along with the institutions, the agencies of government, the moral and physical stresses to which it refers and which it in some degree controls. We hope that you will enjoy the course so we invite you to be very diligent as we take you through one of the most exciting courses in political science. In order to do justice to the course, the following topics are covered: Session 1: The Nature and Scope of Political Theory Session 2: Greek Political and Social Classes Session 3: Plato s Theory of Justice and Ideal State Session 4 Plato Theories Education, Communism and the Philosopher King Session 5: Aristotle s Defense of Slavery and the Naturalness of the State Session 6: Aristotle s Defense of Private Property Session 7: Background of the Stoics Session 8: Cicero Session 9: Seneca Session 10: St. Augustine Session 11: St. Aquinas Session 12: Niccolo Machiavelli on the State and Religion Session 13: Niccolo Machiavelli s Concern for Rulers, Morality and Newly Conquered State 5. PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING APPROACH Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered pedagogy in which students learn about a subject through the experience of problem solving. The goals of PBL are to help the students develop flexible knowledge, effective problem solving skills, self-directed learning, effective collaboration skills and intrinsic motivation. This course will use a problem-based learning approach. Working in groups, students identify what they already know, what they need to know, and how and where to access new information that may lead to resolution of the problem. The role of the instructor/lecturer/tutor is to facilitate learning by supporting, guiding, and monitoring the learning process. The tutor will help build students' confidence to take on the problem, and encourage the students, while also stretching their understanding. 6. COURSE FORMAT The course content will be delivered online through the SAKAI Learning Management System (Sakai LMS). The Sakai LMS will be used to deliver 9

12 Video Lecture Sessions Session Slides Session Reading Materials Assessments Tests, Quizzes and Assignments (including a Problem-based Term Paper) Group activities Discussions and Presentations Announcements will be posted to the course website and/ accordingly. It is the responsibility of students to check on announcements made in class, on the Course Website, and through LEARNING OUTCOMES The learning outcomes for the course are outlined along three strands: knowledge, skills and outcomes. 7.1 KNOWLEDGE Students must have knowledge on: 1. The scope of political theory and the differences between political theory, political thought and political philosophy. 2. The various political and social classes in the Ancient Greek city-states and the major political ideals that made those states very resilient. 3. The major themes and political philosophies of Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Seneca, St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas and Niccolo Machiavelli. 4. The application of the major themes of the philosophers above to contemporary Ghanaian situation. 7.2 SKILLS Students must be able to: 1. Differentiate between political thought, political theory and political philosophy 2. Identify and explain the Greek political and social institutions and political ideals 10

13 3. Examine the political philosophy of Plato, particularly his concept of justice, the ideal state and the philosopher king. 4. Discuss the key themes under Aristotle, especially his concept of the state, rule of law and private property. 5. Examine the philosophies of Cicero and Seneca under general rubric of the Stoics. 6. Outline the main themes in the writings of the Church fathers particularly, St. Augustine and St. Aquinas. 7. Examine the controversies surrounding the writings and the prescriptions of Niccolo Machiavelli as capture in The Prince. 7.3 COMPETENCE Students should in the future be able to: 1. Conceptualize political theory and the differences between political theory, political thought and political philosophy. 2. Appreciate Greek political and social institutions and their resilience 3. Contextualize the main themes of Plato s political theory to contemporary political systems. 4. Understand the basic tenets of Aristotle s political theory and its applicability to contemporary democratic states. 5. Apply the main themes in the writings of the adherents of Stoicism such as Cicero and Seneca to the analysis of contemporary political issues. 6. Situate the writings of St. Augustine and St. Aquinas within the context of the contemporary confusion about the relationship between the state and the Church. 7. Appreciate the variety of circumstances that enthused Machiavelli to write The Prince. 11

14 8. ASSESSMENT The assessment for this course has been designed to help all students to maximize their individual and group/team learning opportunities. A summary of the assessment tasks is provided below. ITEM FORM OF ASSESSMENT DELIVER MARKS ED Individual Short Essays Alongside 15% Assignments Term Paper Sessions Group Term Project Beginning 15% Assignments of Semester Written Examination Semester Examination End of semester 70% Total 100% 8.1 Individual Assignments Individual assignments will be provided at end of the fourth session. These assignments will take the form of a Short Essay and a Term paper. 8.2 Group Project Examine in detail the applicability of Plato s concept of the Ideal State in contemporary Ghanaian society. Submission Guidelines: Students essay must be presented with a cover page which should state out the title of the essay and also outline the name, index number and address of the student. The essay should be double-spaced, font-size 12, Times New Roman. Submit online through Sakai LMS by the end of the 6th Week. The group assignment must also be submitted on the 10 th week. 12

15 Each assignment, therefore, should be carefully edited for grammar, typographical and/or spelling mistakes. Appropriate citations should be provided using the American Psychological Association (APA) format. The following website offers information about writing and formatting papers in the APA style including general format, reference of the works of others in your texts, reference list, examples, notes, and additional resources: RECOMMENDED TEXTS John Plamenatz (1963) Man and Society, Vol. 1, Essex: Longman. J. S. McClelland (2002) A History of Western Political Thought, Routledge. Mitchell Cohen and Nicole Fermon, eds. (1996) Princeton Readings in Political Thought: Essential Texts since Plato, Princeton: Princeton University Press. Lee C. McDonald (1968) Western Political Theory, Part 1: Ancient and Medieval, New York: Harcourt Brace. Stephen Everson, ed. (1996) Aristotle: The Politics and The Constitution of Athens, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. Desmond Lee (1974) Plato, Baltimore: Penguin Classics. T. A. Sinclair (1962) Aristotle: The Politics, Baltimore: Penguin Classics. P. G. Das (2006) History of Political Thought, Kolkata: New Central Book Agency. 13

16 DETAILED CLASS SCHEDULE The course is organized into 13 SESSIONS along the following lines: (1) Overview; (2) Goals and Objectives; and (3) Activities and Assignments. 9. SCHEDULE OF SESSIONS Week Session 1 Sessions 1 2 Session 2 3 Sessions 3 4 Sessions 4 5 Session 5 6 Session 6 7 Session 7 8 Session 8 9 Session 9 10 Session Session Session Session 13 SESSION 1 The Nature and Scope of Political Theory 1.0 Overview Welcome to session 1 of this course which covers the nature and scope of political theory and Greek political and social institutions. Political theory is basically the attempt by man to find solutions to the problems of his political society. We want to assure you that political thought is not abstract as many of you might believe. It is both normative (what ought to be) and empirical (fact or what is). We expect that you will fully commit yourself to this session as it lays the foundation for the subsequent topics in the course. 14

17 In this session, we set out to examine the subject matter of political theory, its definition, evolution and importance. We are sure you will enjoy the session so just relax and read the text much more intently and go through the exercises that are incorporated in them. 1.1 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will be able to: 1. Define political theory 2. Differentiate between political theory, political thought and political philosophy 3. State some of the key questions that engage the attention of political theorists 4. State the key features of political theory 5. Outline the significance of political theory 9.1 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Video for Session 1 - THE NATURE AND SCOPE OF POLITICAL THEORY 3. Read Chapter One of George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. 4. Assignment 1.1: In your own words explain Political theory to any lay person 5. Assignment 1.2: What are the core assumptions underpinning political philosophy? 6. Assignment 1.3: What is the main thrust of political thought? 7. Assignment 1.4: State any two differences between political theory and political philosophy 8. Assignment 1.5: Provide any four justification for the study of political theory 9. Visit the Chat Room and introduce yourself while discussing expectations for the course 10. Explore the online tools available in Sakai. 15

18 SESSION 2 GREEK POLITICAL AND SOCIAL CLASSES 2.1 OVERVIEW Welcome to session 2 of this course: Greek Political and Social Classes. Under this session, we want to discuss the Ancient Greek concept of the city-state. The Greeks considered the state as the single most important political organisation and therefore believed that life of the Greek revolved around the state. The session will also explain the key features of the state as conceived by the Greeks, identify the major advantages and draw backs. We are happy to notify you that the ancient Greeks had certain social classes which defined their roles in the state. Note that one s status on the social ladder determined how one was perceived and had access to some of the social and political rights in the city-state. It is important for you to know the political philosophy and the political institutions through which the ancient Greeks conducted political business. The session also explores why the Greek political and social institutions managed to survive for a very long time. We entreat you to take your time and with diligence, go through this session Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, a student should be able to: 1. Explain how citizenship was acquired in ancient Greece 2. Establish the relationship between the citizens and other category of social classes 3. Identify all the core social classes and their responsibilities 4. Explain the main Ancient Greek Political Institutions and the relationships 5. Outline the representation in these political institutions 6. Explain the main political ideals of the ancient Greece and how these made the citystate resilience 9.2 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. 3. Watch the Videos for Session 2 Greek Political and Social Classes 4. Review Lecture Slides: Session 2 Greek Political and Social Classes 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session 2 6. Assignment 2.1: Outline the main political institutions in ancient Greece 16

19 7. Assignment 2.2: Examine the main relationship between the key political institutions in ancient Greece. 8. Assignment 2.3: What critical role did the court system play in ancient Greece that is so different froem the court of the modern Ghana? 9. Assignment 3.4: What made the Greek political system so resilient? SESSION 3 PLATO S THEORY OF JUSTICE AND IDEAL STATE 3.1Overview Welcome to session 3: Plato s Theory of Justice and Ideal State. In this session, our intention is for you to understand the Background of Plato and situate his writing within a certain context so you can appreciate why he wrote the way he wrote. We will introduce you to the experiences that shaped his understanding of the political system, the methods he employed and his political philosophy. We will also introduce you to one of the most important controlling thought of Plato s political theory. The concept of justice is one of the most important parts of Plato s The Republic. According to Sabine, the theory of the state in the Republic culminates in the conception of justice. The Ideal state is the highest manifestation of goodness, morality and idealism and naturally in such a state justice cannot be relegated to the background in this session. He argues that the state is the product of human soul or mind. He thought that there is an analogy between the individual and the state, and that the life of the individual is the counterpart of the life in the state. Please let us take you through this all-important segment of our discussions on Plato. We invite you to concentrate and enjoy the session. 3.1Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will: 1. Explain the social milieu within which Plato wrote 2. State the main methods used by Plato in his search for knowledge 3. Discuss justice in the individual and in the state 4. Explain how justice in the individual and the state can be ensured 5. Explain Plato s concept of ideal state 6. Establish the relationship that must exit between the three main stations in the state 7. Explain the various forms of government identified by Plato 17

20 9.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: Read the chapters on Plato in the following books: J. S. McClelland (2002) A History of Western Political Thought, Routledge. Mitchell Cohen and Nicole Fermon, eds. (1996) Princeton Readings in Political Thought: Essential Texts since Plato, Princeton: Princeton University Press. 1. Watch the Videos for Session 3 Plato s Theory of Justice and Ideal State 2. Review Lecture Slides: Session Plato s Theory of Justice and Ideal State 3. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session 3 4. Assignment 3.1: Examine the utility of the methodology employed by Plato in his intellectual exposition. 5. Assignment 3.2: How can we ensure justice in a state in Platonic terms? 6. Assignment 3. 3: How does the justice in the state compares with that of the justice in the individual? 7. Assignment 3.4: Examine the main features of the ideal state espoused by Plato. 8. Assignment 3.5: Explain the relationship between the military, the producers and the rulers in the ideal state 9. Assignment 3.6: Why did Plato recommend that the three classes in the state must in harmony? 10. Assignment 3.7: State any four virtues of a good community 11. Assignment 3.8: Explain Plato s classification of government 18

21 SESSION 4 PLATO S THORIES OF EDUCATION, COMMUNISM AND PHILOSOPHER KING 4.1Overview Welcome to session 4: Plato s Theories of Education, Communism and Philosopher King. Please note that the structure of the ideal state hinges on three pillars-these are justice, communism and education. It has been said that in Plato s philosophy education was more important than communism. George Sabine has argued that education is the positive means by which the ruler can shape human nature in the right direction to produce a harmonious state. We also introduce you to Plato s system of communism. Plato indicated that the system of education will build the positive attitudes that the citizens need in an ideal state. You must know that communism will remove all the factors that seek to undermine the effort of individuals to be good citizens. It is therefore recommended that in order to build a very solid individual capable of promoting an ideal state communism must also be taken seriously. Please be informed that in Plato s scheme of things, the ideal state is just the government of the best. But without proper administration, the ideal state can never be ideal or the ideal can never be achieved. This explains why Plato places the philosopher king at the apex of the ideal state. The concentration on the Philosopher king portrays Plato as someone who favoured an authoritarian state. We invite you to worship at the shrine of Plato. 4.2 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will: 1. Explain the purpose, and plan for education 2. Explain the concept of communism as discussed by Plato 3. Outline the rationale for the establishment of communism 4. State the main rational for the institution of the philosopher king 5. Discuss the functions and powers of the philosopher king 6. Outline the main criticisms against the concept of philosopher king 4.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: Read the Chapters on Plato in the following texts: 2. John Plamenatz (1963) Man and Society, Vol. 1, Essex: Longman. 3. J. S. McClelland (2002) A History of Western Political Thought, Routledge. 4. Mitchell Cohen and Nicole Fermon, eds. (1996) Princeton Readings in Political Thought: Essential Texts since Plato, Princeton: Princeton University Press. 19

22 5. Watch the Videos for Session 4 Plato s Thories of Education, Communism and Philosopher King 6. review lecture slides: session 4 Plato s Thories of Education, Communism and Philosopher King 7. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session 4 8. Assignment 4.1. List four similarities between Heywood and David Easton definitions of political science. 9. Assignment 4.2. In Plato s view, what should be the controlling power behind education in the state? 10. Assignment 4.3. Does Plato s plan for primary education make sense to the modern mind? 11. Assignment 4.4. Examine any four advantages you can associate with Plato s exposition on the Philosopher king. 12. Assignment 4.5. Outline any four criticisms of Plato s Philosopher king. 13. Assignment 4.6: Do the critics of Plato s Philosopher King concept undermine it fundamentally? SESSION 5 ARISTOTLE S DEFENCE OF SLAVERY AND THE 6.1 Overview NATURALNESS OF THE STATE Welcome to session 5: Aristotle s Defence of Slavery and the Naturalness of the State. As we indicated in earlier sessions, the milieu within which the political philosophers wrote is very important. Under this session, we specifically want to discuss Aristotle s birth and nativity, his educational background and profession and examine his works and political ideals. We also learn about Aristotle s views on the state and the implications for the naturalness of the state. Aristotle also thinks slavery is natural, we shall therefore find how he justifies this assertion, the criticisms against him, and the usefulness of his perception of slavery in the context of his times. Just relax and enjoy as we venture into the shrine of Aristotle. 6.2 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will 1. Explain the background of Aristotle 2. Outline his education and training and how these affected his profession 20

23 3. State his main political ideals 4. State the origin and the general purpose of the state 5. Explain the implications of the naturalness of the state 6. Outline significance of his perception of slavery 7. State the criticisms against Aristotle s conception of the naturalness of slavery 5.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 5: Aristotle s Background, Defence of Slavery and the Naturalness of the State 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 5: Aristotle s Background, Defence of Slavery and the Naturalness of the State 4. Read the relevant chapter in the following books: 5. Stephen Everson, ed. (1996) Aristotle: The Politics and The Constitution of Athens, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 6. George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. 7. T. A. Sinclair (1962) Aristotle: The Politics, Baltimore: Penguin Classics. 8. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session 5 1. Assignment 5.1: What three issues does Aristotle consider in his discussion of the location of the state? 2. Assignment 5.2: How does Aristotle explain why it is necessary for the state to have easy access to land and sea? 3. Assignment 5.3: How does Aristotle relate the naturalness of slavery to leisure and the good life? 4. Assignment 5.4: Why do critics say that Aristotle s view on slavery is pagan? 5. Assignment 5.5: What two other criticisms can you raise against Aristotle s view that slavery is natural? 6. Assignment 5.6: Indicate any one feature of the Greek city-state that might have influenced Aristotle s naturalness of slavery. 7. Assignment 5.7: How does Aristotle link the power of speech to the naturalness of the state? 21

24 8. Assignment 5.8: State clearly any one of the three implications of Aristotle s idea of naturalness of the state. SESSION 6: ARISTOTLE S RULE OF LAW AND DEFENSE OF PRIVATE PROPERTY 6.1 Overview In this session, we examine three aspects of the state on which Aristotle expresses some interesting views, his conception of law and his theory of private property. The three aspects of the state are: citizenship, the size of the state, and the location of the state. Aristotle s conception of Law is also explored in this session. We are particularly interested in three of them, namely: kinds of rule (or authority); the rule of law; and claims to power. Aristotle s Theory of Property also features prominently in this session. Do not forget that Plato had argued that one of the fundamental evils of society was private property and so he felt that the only way to deal with the evil was to abolish private property at least to the guardian class. Plato s student, Aristotle unfortunately had a different view. Aristotle argues that property is too good to be denied rulers. Our focus here is to explain this interesting disagreement between a teacher Plato and his student, Aristotle. Specifically, we will deal with a revision of Plato s attitude to private property, Aristotle s justification and caution on the use of private property. 6.2 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will: 1. Explain the concept of citizenship as used by Aristotle 2. Outline the utility of the size and location of the state 3. Examine the kind of rule favoured by Aristotle 4. Outline the main tenets of the concept of rule of law 5. Explain Plato s attitude towards private property 6. State Aristotle s justification of property 7. Outline Aristotle s condemnation of excessive acquisition of property 6.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 6- Aristotle s Defense of Private Property 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 6- Aristotle s Defense of Private Property 22

25 4. Read Chapter the relevant chapters in the following books: Stephen Everson, ed. (1996) Aristotle: The Politics and The Constitution of Athens, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. T. A. Sinclair (1962) Aristotle: The Politics, Baltimore: Penguin Classics. P. G. Das (2006) History of Political Thought, Kolkata: New Central Book Agency. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session 6 1. Assignment 6.1: State three differences between dictatorship and authoritarianism 2. Assignment 6.2: What three issues does Aristotle consider in his discussion of the location of the state? 3. Assignment 6.3: How does Aristotle explain why it is necessary for the state to have easy access to land and sea? 4. Assignment 6.4: Summarize Aristotle s views on any one of the following: (a) Citizenship (b) The size of the state (c) The location of the state 5. Assignment 6.5: How does political authority differ from the authority of the husband/father over his wife/children? 6. Assignment 6.6: What solution does Aristotle provide for dealing with the evils associated with private property? SESSION 7 BACKGROUND OF THE STOICS 7.1 Overview Welcome to session 7: Background of the Stoics. You need to know that the most representative and influential philosophical school of the five centuries from about 300 B.C to A.D. 200 was Stoicism. Cicero and Seneca existed side by side with the stoics and that is why you need to understand the stoics. In this session, we intend to introduce you to the origin of the stoics and their core principles and their political philosophy. We begin this session with a discussion of the stoics because Seneca was a Stoic and even though Cicero was not a stoic, but as an avowed eclectic he was a reflector of Stoic ideas. Please relax and let us take you through the stoics. 23

26 7.2 Goals and Objectives By the end of this session, the student will be expected to be: 1. Outline the background of the stoics 2. State the fundamental principles of the stoics 3. Explain the political philosophy of the stoics 7.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 7 Background of the Stoics 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 7 Background of the Stoics 4. Read the relevant chapters of the following books: Lee C. McDonald (1968) Western Political Theory, Part 1: Ancient and Medieval, New York: Harcourt Brace. P. G. Das (2006) History of Political Thought, Kolkata: New Central Book Agency. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session 7 1. Assignment 7.1: Explain any two principles of the Stoics 2. Assignment 7.2: State any four main political philosophies of the Stoics 3. Assignment 7.3: What in your view, made the stoics very attractive to secular writers of their day? 4. Assignment 7.4: How relevant are the principles of the stoics to modern day societies? SESSION 8 THE POLITICAL THEORY OF CICERO 8.1 Overview Welcome to session 8: The Political Theory of Marcus Tullius Cicero. You need to know that Cicero was a very influential writer in the second century after Christ. During the last century of the Roman Empire there was severe political agitations and tension. During this time an enduring influence was exercised by Cicero. Characteristically, Cicero was not a philosopher in the stature of Plato and Aristotle, nor was he a leader of any philosophical school but he made such a phenomenal contribution to political thought of his day. In this session, we will introduce you to the background of Cicero and his political philosophy, particularly his conception of the ideal state. Please note that the state exists to supply its 24

27 citizens with the advantages of mutual aid and just government. We will also outline the characteristics of the state and explain the forms of government identified by Cicero. 8.2 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student should be able to 1. Outline the background of Cicero 2. Explain Cicero s concept of natural law 3. Outline his natural equality of man 4. Explain the concept of the state as natural to man 5. Explain the concept of the state 6. Outline the key characteristics of the state 7. State and explain the forms of government identified by Cicero 8.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 8 The Political Theory of Marcus Tullius Cicero 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 8 The Political Theory of Marcus Tullius Cicero 4. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session 8 1. Assignment 8.1: In what ways did Plato and Aristotle influence the writings of Cicero? 2. Assignment 8.2: What was the place of law in the scheme of things of Cicero? 3. Assignment 8.3: Explain the main themes in Cicero s political philosophy 4. Assignment 8.4: What form of government did Cicero favour and why? 5. Assignment 8.5: State any two features of the city as identified by Cicero SESSION 9 THE POLITICAL THEORY OF SENECA 9.1 Overview Welcome to session 9: The Political Theory of Seneca. In this session, we will introduce you to one of the leading light of Stoicism, Seneca. Our focus here is to introduce you to the 25

28 background and training of Seneca and how these affected his philosophies. We will also discuss Seneca s conception of the state and the society and the distinction he draws between them. As a student of power, you need to know that the state and the society are very important variables for purposes of political analysis. We conclude the session on with a discussion of one of the distinctive themes in Seneca s political philosophy, the Golden Age. The idea of the Golden Age suggests that men were in the state of purity which Seneca admired perhaps before men fell to the evil trappings of power and the acquisition of private property. Just relax and go through the session as it promises to be very interesting. 9.2 Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will able to: 1. Explain the background of Seneca 2. Outline his exposition on human nature 3. Explain his attitude towards politics 4. Explain why Seneca draws a distinction between the state and society 5. Outline Seneca s exposition on religion 6. Describe the conditions of man in the state of purity 7. Explain the factors that undermined the purity of man 9.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 9: The Political Theory of Seneca. 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 9: The Political Theory of Seneca. 4. Read the relevant chapters of the following Books: George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. P. G. Das (2006) History of Political Thought, Kolkata: New Central Book Agency. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session 1. Assignment 9.1: Outline Seneca s exposition on the nature of man 2. Assignment 9.2: What was Seneca s attitude towards politics? 26

29 3. Assignment 9.3: Why did Seneca insist that the state and the society must be separated? 4. Assignment 9.4: Why is Seneca sometimes referred to as a humanitarian philosopher? 5. Assignment 9.5: Justify Seneca s assertion that God is caring. SESSION 10 ST. AUGUSTINE 10.1 Overview Welcome to session 10: St. Augustine. We are going to introduce you to the life, education and the political ideals of Augustine. We will also introduce you to the Fallen Nature, the Two Cities, the church and the state. We further examine Augustine s views on four political concepts: political obligation, justice, peace, and slavery. It is interesting to note that Augustine s views on these concepts were largely influenced by his conception of the state and the relations between the church and the state. Please let us explore how Augustine dealt with these concepts Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will: 1. Outline the political environment within which Augustine wrote 2. Explain how the prevailing conditions affected his writings 3. Examine the relevance of Augustine s writings to modern politics 4. Outline the fallen nature of man 5. Explain the main differences between the city of God and the city of Earth 6. Discuss the utility of the city of God 7. Explain the main political obligation of citizens 8. Discuss the main tenets of the concepts of justice, peace and slavery 10.2 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 10: St. Augustine 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 10: St. Augustine 4. Read the relevant chapters of the following Books: 27

30 J. S. McClelland (2002) A History of Western Political Thought, Routledge. Mitchell Cohen and Nicole Fermon, eds. (1996) Princeton Readings in Political Thought: Essential Texts since Plato, Princeton: Princeton University Press. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session Assignment 10.1: Explain why in the Middle Ages it was difficult to think of politics without religion. 2. Assignment 10.2: What was the two-fold duty that Christians in the Middle Ages had? 3. Assignment 10.3: Indicate any two criticisms that the pagans had about Christianity 4. Assignment 10.4: Why were the Christians of Augustine s times confused about the fall of the Roman Empire? 5. Assignment 10.5: What was the main purpose of Augustine s book, City of God 6. Assignment 10.6: Why, according to Augustine, should the Christian citizen obey the secular government? 7. Assignment 10.7: Why does Augustine liken a state without justice to an association of robbers? 8. Assignment 10.8: Why, according to Augustine, is a godless state unjust? 9. Assignment 10.9: State any two ways which in Augustine s view make states unjust 10. Assignment 10.10: Why, according to Augustine, is peace so important? 11. Assignment 10.11: State any two obligations of man in relation to his fellow man 12. Assignment 10.12: Why, according to Augustine, did God create the state? 13. Assignment 10.13: How does Augustine link the story of the two societies to the fall of the Roman Empire? 14. Assignment 10.14: Indicate any two attributes of the City of God. 15. Assignment 10.15: State any two of the deeper significance of Augustine s two cities. 28

31 SESSION 11 ST. THOMAS AQUINAS 11.1 Overview Welcome to session 11: St Thomas Aquinas. In this session, we examine the background, political ideals and three aspects of what constitutes the most important part of Aquinas political thought: Law. We study the essence, types and effects of Law and in the process, see how Aquinas attempts to combine the Greek and Roman views on Law. We also discuss Aquinas views on the origin and functions of the state as well as his discussion of the necessity of government, the forms of government, the motives and justifications of rulers, and the nature and duties of ruler-ship. The relationship between the state and the church has always been a contentious issue. Some authorities argue that the state by virtue of being an association of associations must predominate. While others contend that the church being sacrosanct in spiritual matters must dominate. We discuss this contentious issue from the view point of Aquinas Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student will be able to: 1. Examine the background of Aquinas 2. Account for Aquinas concept of law 3. Examine the concept of the state 4. Outline the functions of government 5. Discuss the main duties of rulers 6. Establish the relationship between the church and the state 7. Discuss the main functions of the church 8. Outline the main purpose of the state 11.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 11: St. Thomas Aquinas 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 11: St. Thomas Aquinas 4. Read the relevant chapters of the following Books: S. McClelland (2002) A History of Western Political Thought, Routledge. Mitchell Cohen and Nicole Fermon, eds. (1996) Princeton Readings in Political Thought: Essential Texts since Plato, Princeton: Princeton University Press. 29

32 Lee C. McDonald (1968) Western Political Theory, Part 1: Ancient and Medieval, New York: Harcourt Brace. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session Assignment 11: In not more than two sentences provide your own definition of public opinion. 2. Assignment 11.2: How does the level of education and gender affect the opinion held by an individual? 3. Assignment 11.3: What is natural law? 4. Assignment 11.4: Provide the differences between eternal law and natural law 5. Assignment 11.5: What is the relationship between human law on one hand and natural and divine laws on the other? 6. Assignment 11.6: Discuss any three effects of law in a society 7. Assignment 11.7: Explain Aquinas exposition of the naturalness of the state 8. Assignment 11.8: Discuss four fundamental aims of government 9. Assignment 11.9: Why did Aquinas argue that man is a social animal? 10. Assignment 11.10: In the interval before Aquinas, what was the relationship between the state and the church? 11. Assignment 11.11: How do you reconcile the positions of Aristotle and Aquinas on the relationship between the state and the church? SESSION 12 NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI S ITALY AND THE STATE 12.1Overview Welcome to session 12: Machiavelli s Italy and the State. We are particularly happy that you have made it up to this point. We introduce you to the background of Machiavelli by covering his birth, education and profession, human nature as he saw it and Italy of his day. We also introduce you to the concept of the state by considering the foundation of government, nation-state and politics and law and the legislator Goals and Objectives At the end of the session, the student should be able to: 30

33 1. Give a vivid account of the background and birth of Machiavelli 2. Explain the rationale for the writing of the Prince 3. Account for the difficulty in establishing a united Italy 4. Discuss the concept of human nature 5. Explain the lessons Machiavelli got from key personal experiences 6. Account for the main foundation of government 7. Explain the origin of power in the state 8. Discuss the utility of law to the legislator 9. Explain Machiavelli s conception of religion 12.3 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 12 Machiavelli on the State and Religion 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 12 Machiavelli on the State and Religion 4. Read the relevance Chapters of the following Books: 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum questions for Session Assignment 12.1: Account for the nature of man as seen by Machiavelli 2. Assignment 12.2: State the main reasons for which the prince was written 3. Assignment 12.3: Identify and explain any four factors that impeded the smooth unification of Italy in Machiavelli s days. 4. Assignment 12.4: Explain the main methods adopted by Machiavelli in his study 5. Assignment 12.5: Identify and explain the main personal experiences that influenced the writing of the Prince 6. Assignment 12.6: What major lessons did Machiavelli pick from his interactions with Cesare Borgia 7. Assignment 12.7: What is the purpose of law in a state? 8. Assignment 12.8: Discuss the key functions of the omnipotent legislator in the state 9. Assignment Account for the establishment of a government 10. Assignment Discuss the sources of power in the state 31

34 11. Assignment Explain the relationship between good laws and good arms in a state SESSION 13 NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI ON RELIGION, MORALITY AND 12.4 Overview NEWLY CONQUERED STATE We are happy to introduce you to session 13: Machiavelli on Religion, Morality and the Newly Conquered State. In this session, Machiavelli s attitude to religion which he claims is something that must be encouraged if the state is to be well governed but cautions the new prince not to dabble in it is seriously discussed. We are interested in how the prince or ruler is able to govern effectively. We consider fundamentally the psychology of the ruler and the ruled with the intention of identifying some of key steps the ruler must take to control his people much more securely. Some authorities have contended that Machiavelli was immoral and will lead us into perdition because he was interested in getting the better of other people. This position is an overhasty generalization in that Machiavelli was interested in a well governed state and so in the circumstances that he found himself in Italy, the methods he prescribed appeared to be the best. Machiavelli s preferences and the justification for the use of cruel methods to achieve the desired ends in the state are also discussed. A treatment is also given to how the prince should handle his newly conquered state. At the end of the session, the student will able to: 1. Account for the relation between virtue and fortune 2. Explain the danger associated with the use of love as the basis of rule 3. State the key preferences of Machiavelli 4. Explain the use of cruel methods to achieve desired ends 5. Identify the four main groups the new prince is bound to encounter 6. Discuss the methods the new prince must use to control them 7. Examine the difficulty in embarking upon reforms in a state 12.5 Activities and Assignments This week, complete the following tasks: 1. Log onto the UG Sakai LMS course site: 2. Watch the Videos for Session 13: Machiavelli s concern for Rulers, Morality and the Newly Conquered State. 32

35 3. Review Lecture Slides: Session 13: Machiavelli s concern for Rulers, Morality and the Newly Conquered State. 4. Read the relevant Chapters from the following: Lee C. McDonald (1968) Western Political Theory, Part 1: Ancient and Medieval, New York: Harcourt Brace. George Sabine/ Thomas L. Thorson (1973) A History of Political Theory, Fourth Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace. P. G. Das (2006) History of Political Thought, Kolkata: New Central Book Agency. 5. Visit the Chat Room and discuss the Forum question for Session Assignment 13.1: State any four peculiarities of goodness as identified by Machiavelli 2. Assignment 13.2: Explain the relevance of virtue in the life of a man 3. Assignment 13.3: What is the relationship between virtue and fortune? 4. Assignment 13.4: Why did Machiavelli liken fortune to a woman? 5. Assignment 13.5: Why did Machiavelli thing that love is an insure basis of princely rule? 6. Assignment 13.6: Why did Machiavelli recommend that the family of the deposed ruler must be exterminated? 7. Assignment 13.7: Why did Machiavelli regard the people as the most valuable asset of the new prince? 8. Assignment 13.8: Explain the charge of immorality and notoriety levelled against Machiavelli. 33

36 APPENDIX A TERM PAPER With the support of relevant illustrations, examine critically the utility of Political Theory to the development of modern states. Submission Guidelines: Each paper should be presented with a cover page which should state out the code and title of the course, the question and the name, index number and address of the student. The paper must be should be double-spaced, font-size 12, Times New Roman. Submit online through Sakai LMS by the end of the 6th Week. Each assignment, therefore, should be carefully edited for grammar, typos, and/or spelling mistakes. Appropriate citations should be provided using the American Psychological Association (APA) format. The following website offers information about writing and formatting papers in the APA style including general format, reference of the works of others in your texts, reference list, examples, notes, and additional resources: 1. COVER PAGE Each paper should be presented with a cover page which should state out the title of the paper and also outline the name, index number and address of student. 2. OUTLINE OF THE PAPER The paper should be 3-5 pages (References excluded) of typed work and must consist of the following: Introduction Body Conclusion References 34