Philosophy and Politics, MA (Hons)

Philosophy Philosophy has been at the core of Western intellectual life for at least 2,500 years. It is central to our understanding of the world and of our place in and interaction with it. Philosophy provides the tools by which the presuppositions of all areas of intellectual and practical activity may be systematically and critically examined. While there are different approaches that philosophers have taken, characteristic of philosophy is the emphasis on the use of:

• argument

• critical enquiry

• rigour in reasoning

• clarity of expression, including the making of pertinent distinctions

Philosophy at Edinburgh The University has a strong historic connection to the subject, counting Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton among its former students. Edinburgh has one of the UK's largest philosophy departments and the Philosophy Society attracts high-profile speakers. Our programme is structured in such a way that you will cover the basics of Western philosophy. Later in the degree, you will have the opportunity to select from a wide variety of courses from Philosophy of Well-Being to Feminism. Politics Politics focuses on a variety of issues including:

• political theory

• public theory

• international relations in Europe, Russia, Africa and the US

You will gain knowledge on a range of political:

• systems

• institutions

• processes

• ideas

This will enable you to develop and apply your knowledge and skills to the understanding, and evaluation of, political issues in the contemporary world, including the:

• morality of political action

• limits of freedom and justice

Studying Philosophy and Politics together This combined programme enables you to gain an in-depth knowledge in both subject areas, and the opportunity to specialise in the topics that interest you most.