Introduction to Politics
Learn Path Description
This course will develop your understanding of the contested nature of politics. This ExpertTrack gives you a broad introduction to the study of politics. You will be equipped with a basic understanding of political science, political philosophy, and the machinery of government. You will consider how political systems are formed, examine political ideologies and look at the role of the state and the nation. Gain an understanding of how politics works This first course will equip you with the knowledge and skills for further study. You’ll be introduced to political science, political philosophy and critical theory. You’ll then study the key concepts of political ideology, including liberalism, conservatism and socialism, as well as feminism. Understanding politics from the individual to an international scale You’ll take an in-depth look at democracy, the machinery of government, and political economy and globalisation. You’ll then investigate identity politics, looking at economic individualism from the context of class-based politics. Key texts will introduce you to important theories and arguments from the history of political studies, as well as key figures in the discipline. Over the course, you’ll gain insight and understanding of how politics works on a global scale, as well as looking at different models of how countries are governed, for example by comparing political systems with presidents and prime ministers at the helm. By the end of the ExpertTrack, you will not only have a deeper understanding of the complex world of politics, but will also be equipped for further study, and have some insight into what a degree in politics entails.
Skills You Will Gain
Courses In This Learning Path
Total Duration
4 weeks
Level
Beginner
Learn Type
Certifications
Understanding Politics
This four-week course provides the foundation knowledge and understanding necessary for further study in political science. You will have a basic understanding of the roles of governments, states, and regimes by the end. There will also be an introduction to political ideologies and recommendations for further reading.
This course will help you understand the various political models. These will give you a critical perspective on political arguments, statements and the world around.
Learn about identity, class politics, ideologies, political power, and how they relate to each other. Key concepts from conservatism, socialism and feminism will be covered. You will also learn about the differences and how they are debated.
You will have a good understanding of politics, as well as a working knowledge of key texts, historical context, and current debates at the end of this course.
You can see some of the steps in this course before you sign up.
Total Duration
4 weeks
Level
Beginner
Learn Type
Certifications
How Politics Works: From the Individual to an International Scale
This course is designed to provide an introduction to politics and prepare students for further study in the field. It covers the basics of democracy, government machinery, and the politics of globalization. The course also delves into identity politics, including a discussion on class and economic individualism. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to key texts and recommended further reading to enhance their learning.
The first week of the course focuses on the function and significance of democracy. Students will learn how to evaluate and identify different types of democracy. In the second week, students will apply their knowledge to a discussion on the best model of democracy, using key texts and examples.
The following week explores key components of government, such as constitutions, legislative bodies, executive branches, and judiciary systems. Further reading materials will be provided to deepen understanding and prepare students for future studies.
In the final stages of the course, students will examine how politics impacts the economy, specifically in relation to social capitalism, globalization, and enterprise. This section also discusses the question of whether students should bear the responsibility of paying tuition.
The last week of the course shifts focus to individual politics. It covers class analysis, economic individualism, neoliberalism, and the effects of economic individualism. Additional reading recommendations are provided to supplement learning.
Overall, this course offers a comprehensive overview of politics, providing students with a solid foundation for further exploration in the field.
