Curriculum Description:
The curriculum for B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) at Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab, is meticulously designed to provide students with a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Political Science. The academic plan is structured into eight modules, each strategically crafted to introduce students to foundational concepts, diverse political theories, and the historical evolution of political thought. This curriculum seamlessly integrates the study of Political Science with the broader context of law, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between political and legal systems.
The first module serves as an essential introduction to the dynamic field of Political Science. It aims to establish a strong foundation by exploring the meaning, nature, and scope of the discipline. By delving into key concepts such as the state, government, and social contract, students gain a profound understanding of the theoretical underpinnings that shape political discourse. The second module builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired in Module I by delving into specific concepts within political theory. Through an examination of power, justice, liberty, equality, and sovereignty, students engage with the works of prominent political thinkers such as Michael Foucault, Hannah Arendt, Amartya Sen, John Rawls, J.S. Mill, and Isaiah Berlin. The third module provides a historical journey through Western political thought, offering insights into the ideas and philosophies that have shaped political discourse over the centuries. Students explore the works of influential thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, J.S. Mill, and Karl Marx, gaining a deep appreciation for the evolution of political ideas. The fourth module provides a distinctive focus on the rich tapestry of Indian political thought. Students engage with the ideas of Kautilya, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, M.N. Roy, and V.D. Savarkar, gaining insights into the diverse philosophies that have shaped India's political landscape. Module number 5 aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of various political ideologies, tracing their historical evolution, key principles, and contemporary manifestations. The sixth Module focuses on a comparative analysis of political systems, examining their structures, functions, and outcomes across different countries. Module VII explores theories and issues in international relations, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of global politics. Module number eight addresses current challenges and issues in global politics, encouraging students to apply theoretical frameworks to real-world problems.
To ensure a proper understanding of the subject the curriculum unfolds into thoughtfully structured lectures, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive coverage of the modules. The teaching schedule encompasses a mix of traditional lectures and interactive sessions, including viva voce, debates, quizzes, seminars, workshops, and movie screenings. This approach aims to cater to diverse learning styles and foster a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Students are also provided with a curated list of recommended readings, drawing from the works of esteemed scholars in the field. The suggested books span a range of topics, from an introduction to political philosophy by Leo Strauss to in-depth explorations of Western and Indian political thought.
To enhance the learning experience, students are encouraged to actively participate in classroom activities, including debates, assignments, and discussions on shared materials through the ERP platform and WhatsApp group. The Department of Political Science is very active in organising various seminars, conferences and workshops, in collaboration with different centres of the university, like the ‘Young Scholars Conference’ and its flagship event ‘Cognoscenti’, a discourse cum debate on the concepts of justice and liberty to instill the art of discussion and critical thinking among the students. The prohibition of electronic gadgets during classes emphasizes a focused and immersive learning environment. The curriculum's flexibility, coupled with the emphasis on student participation, reflects a commitment to a student-centric approach to education.
In essence, this curriculum is designed to empower students with a robust understanding of Political Science, encompassing both Western and Indian political thought. By intertwining theoretical foundations with practical applications, it equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for critical engagement with political and legal discourses. The curriculum's comprehensive nature makes it a cornerstone in the academic journey of aspiring legal scholars, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricate connections between law and politics.