History of ideas: the past and the future of liberal democracy
- Course Code: HP238
- Dates: 12/10/24 - 12/10/24
- Time: 10:30 - 16:30
- Taught: Sat, Daytime
- Duration: 1 session
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Edgar Ter-Danielyan
Course Code: HP238
Duration: 1 session
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This History of Ideas course is an introduction to Liberal Democracy, its origins, challenges, and possible futures from a perspective of political philosophy.
Political philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about the state, government, liberty, justice, and the enforcement of a legal code by authority, aiming to understand and evaluate the concepts and principles that underpin political institutions and practices.
What will we cover?
We will examine the concept of liberal democracy, tracing its development from inception to the present day and considering its potential directions in the future.
We will study the philosophical foundations of liberal democracy, the historical context of its growth, and the challenges it faces in the modern era.
Through an analysis of key theoretical perspectives, we will aim to gain an understanding of how liberal democracy has been shaped by political thought and practice, and how it might adapt to meet the demands of an evolving political landscape.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Engage in an informed discussion about the origins and challenges of Liberal Democracy as a form of government and be better able to situate it within the context of history of ideas and political philosophy.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course and does not require any prior study. An open mind and willingness to listen and respond to ideas with which you may not always agree are more important than specific levels of skill.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course will be taught in person through a mix of interactive lecture and discussion, and no work outside the class is required.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No; you may want to take notes for future reference. A list of recommended reading for further study will be provided at the end of the course.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You may be interested in Edgar's next course, Four outstanding women philosophers of the 20th century, (HP208), in March 2025.
Edgar ter Danielyan holds a First in Philosophy and Theology from Heythrop College, University of London, a research MA in Philosophy from the University of Buckingham (where he studied under the late Prof. Sir Roger Scruton), a Chartered Fellowship in Computing, and the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies with Distinction from the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales. He is a member of the Royal Institute of Philosophy, the British Society for the Philosophy of Religion, and the British Philosophical Association. His work in the philosophy of religion has been published in the Analysis and Heythrop journals, and he has delivered papers on topics in the philosophy of religion at the universities of Oxford and Birmingham.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
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