Many people think that they know what Politics is. It is incredibly difficult to define, however. Some theorists, such as Saint Augustine believed that Politics is a 'regrettable necessity' while others, notably Bernard Crick contended that Politics is a process, a means of resolving conflict by peaceful means. In contrast, Howard Lasswell asserted that Politics is about power and is a study of power relationships. 

What we need to accept at this point is that Politics touches every aspect of every citizen's life. Studying Politics as a subject therefore is studying how life works and how the world is organised.

This course is ideal for students interested in life, society, global issues, international relations and the law. As students work through this course many decide to continue studying Politics or a related subject at college or university. If you would like some advice on this, just get in touch.

To begin with, let us embark upon some structured reading. There are a number of specific terms that will be used throughout this course and the ideas of theorists will be referenced where appropriate. It is a good idea to begin with a short chapter from Harrison and Boyd's book, 'Political Ideas and Movements' (2003). The relevant pages are attached to this post.

In this chapter you will encounter a number of theorists' views about politics, power and justice.

1. Once you have read the text, comment below to identify which theorists' interpretation of Politics (pp.3-6) you find most compelling, interesting or that you agree with. Give a justification for your response.

2. Niccolo Machiavelli wrote that 'It is necessary for anyone establishing a state and setting down its laws to presuppose that all people are evil, and that they will always act according to the wickedness of their spirits whenever they get the chance'. This feels like a very pessimistic view of human nature, but if you believed this to be true, what role could or should governments or leaders (monarchs, prime ministers, presidents etc) play in balancing out such selfish behaviour? Could politics 'save' the people from themselves?

3. Look at the quote from Greek - Statesman, Perricles (495 BC - 429 BC) below. Do you think that he is correct? Justify your response.

Leave your responses to the three questions above in the comments below: