The course aims to provide students with a conceptual framework for the understanding of politics. Among the expected results are, on one hand, the development of the skills needed for a disciplined use of language and thought applied to conceptual and theoretical analysis; on the other hand, a training in the exercise of critical thinking about the most widespread models of political analysis, together with the ability to provide a clear exposition of the outcomes of such an exercise in written form.
Course Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
Face-to-face lectures.
Assessment Methods
Written examination. Students are expected to demonstrate: a) an exhaustive knowledge of the themes discussed in class and illustrated in the exam papers; b) appropriateness of language, especially with regard to the “technical” use of terms; c) an ability to write a clear, orderly and systematic exposition; d) originality in the critical re-elaboration of the contents of the course.
Texts
M. Stoppino, Potere e teoria politica, Giuffrè, Milano, 2001.
F. Battegazzorre, Analisi del discorso politico, Brescia, Morcelliana Scholè.
Contents
The course illustrates an approach to politics grounded on the concept of power. It aims to train students in conceptual analysis, as a prerequisite for theory formation and empirical research. In particular, the lectures are centered on the following topics: a) The concept of power and the forms of social power; b) Power and authority; c) Power and violence; d) Types of social power; e) Social power and political power; f) The concept of political power; g) Political action; h) The political regime; i) The political structure; j) The political process.
