Program Overview
Global Justice (POLS0100)
Key Information
- Faculty: Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences
- Teaching department: Political Science
- Credit value: 15
- Restrictions:
- Pre-requisites: two introductory political theory modules such as POLS0061 and POLS0064 or POLS0006 and PHIL0007
Alternative Credit Options
There are no alternative credit options available for this module.
Description
This module explores normative debates in foreign policy and international relations. Through a combination of theoretical and empirical readings, we ask the question of what justice might demand between states and across societies, and how such demands ought to shape foreign policy and global governance. Some possible topics that we will cover include: global historic injustice and empire; just and unjust wars; human rights and humanitarian intervention; ethics of international aid and debt; global poverty and redistribution; justice in trade and investment; ethics of immigration and borders; transnational activism, and so on.
This module assumes knowledge of political theory. Students should have taken two introductory political theory modules (such as POLS0061 and POLS0064, or POLS0006 and PHIL0007, or equivalent modules) prior to this module, as the module will build on foundational political theory knowledge.
By the end of the module you will be able to:
- Articulate the main arguments and positions of central debates in normative political theory on international affairs.
- Critically assess these debates to identify problems within prevailing arguments.
- Develop and justify your own responses to philosophical and practical issues in global ethics.
Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year
- Intended teaching term: Term 2
- Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 6)
Teaching and Assessment
- Mode of study: In person
- Methods of assessment:
- 100% Coursework (2 assessments)
- Mark scheme: Numeric Marks
Other Information
- Number of students on module in previous year: 38
- Module leader: Dr Shuk Ying Chan
Last Updated
This module description was last updated on 10th March 2026.