ASPO 11A00 - Introduction to Political Science

This introductory course in political science provides an overview of the main objects, concepts, theoretical approaches, and methods that structure the discipline. It aims to develop students’ knowledge as well as their analytical and critical thinking skills with regard to contemporary political phenomena. The course covers the major themes of political science, including the State, the nation and nationalism, democratic, authoritarian and totalitarian regimes, media and public opinion, political parties, voting and electoral behaviour, collective mobilisation, public policy, political violence, and the European Union. For each of these topics, the course seeks to clarify the key concepts and ideas involved, introduce the major scholars and foundational texts in the field, and examine the main questions and debates that have shaped political science research. By the end of the course, students will be able to master the core conceptual tools of political science, understand the methods underpinning scientific inquiry in the social sciences, and distinguish between empirically grounded analysis and normative judgment. Students will also learn to read political science scholarship critically, mobilise their knowledge to shed light on contemporary political issues, and, more broadly, they will strengthen their ability to develop independent, informed, and well-reasoned arguments.