MA History of Political Thought and Intellectual History

Program Overview

The MA in History of Political Thought and Intellectual History at Queen Mary University of London offers students an in-depth understanding of the evolution of political thought, its key figures, and its intellectual foundations. The program examines the impact of political ideas on historical developments and addresses the relationship between politics, society, and culture. Students engage with key texts in political philosophy, studying influential thinkers from the Enlightenment to the present, including figures such as Hobbes, Rousseau, Marx, and Mill, alongside contemporary political theorists. The program is designed for students who wish to develop a sophisticated understanding of political theory, intellectual history, and their implications for modern political systems. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, students will gain the skills to critically analyze political ideas and engage with contemporary debates on governance, rights, and justice.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in History of Political Thought and Intellectual History is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history of political ideas, their development, and their influence on political institutions. Core modules focus on the history of political thought, political philosophy, and the intellectual traditions that have shaped political discourse over the centuries. Students explore the works of key political theorists, studying their contributions to the development of modern politics, democracy, and individual rights. The program also incorporates specialized modules that delve deeper into specific intellectual movements, such as liberalism, socialism, conservatism, feminism, and post-colonialism. Additionally, the curriculum covers the historical context in which these ideas emerged and evolved, providing students with a broader understanding of how political theory interacts with historical events. Students are encouraged to develop their own research projects and critical analyses, culminating in a dissertation that allows them to explore a specific topic in depth.

Research Focus: The MA in History of Political Thought and Intellectual History at Queen Mary University of London has a strong research focus, encouraging students to engage with the latest scholarship in political theory and intellectual history. Research areas within the program include the development of political ideologies, the role of political thought in shaping societal structures, and the relationship between intellectual movements and political change. Students have the opportunity to explore themes such as the history of political revolutions, the intellectual roots of democracy, the evolution of human rights, and the impact of global political thought. The program encourages interdisciplinary research, allowing students to draw on a variety of perspectives from history, philosophy, sociology, and political science. By engaging with faculty members who are experts in the field of political thought and intellectual history, students can pursue independent research projects that contribute to ongoing academic debates and advancements in the field.

Industry Engagement: The MA in History of Political Thought and Intellectual History at Queen Mary University of London provides students with valuable industry engagement opportunities that complement their academic learning. While the program is focused on academic and intellectual pursuits, it also recognizes the importance of connecting students with professionals in political analysis, public policy, think tanks, and government organizations. The university has strong links with research institutions, policy organizations, and cultural institutions, providing students with opportunities for internships, workshops, and guest lectures. These engagements allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world issues, such as political policy analysis, governance, and the intersection of intellectual history with contemporary political debates. The program’s emphasis on practical industry engagement helps students build professional networks and gain insights into how historical and political ideas shape modern decision-making.

Global Perspective: The MA in History of Political Thought and Intellectual History at Queen Mary University of London offers a global perspective, reflecting the interconnectedness of political thought across different cultures and historical contexts. The program explores political ideas from a variety of global traditions, including Western political philosophy, post-colonial thought, and political theory in non-Western societies. Students examine how different political ideologies and intellectual movements have shaped governance models around the world and have contributed to the formation of global political institutions. This global outlook allows students to develop a nuanced understanding of political ideas and their impact on international relations, human rights, and global justice. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding political thought within the context of globalization, offering students the chance to engage with contemporary debates on issues such as nationalism, democracy, and global governance. By studying political thought from a variety of cultural and historical perspectives, students are well-equipped to analyze and contribute to global political discourse.