This course is a graduate survey designed to introduce students to the scope, concepts, and methods of political theory. Its intended audience is students in the field (including minors) and in cognate disciplines. Over the course of the semester we will ask, “What is political theory, and how does one ‘do’ it?” exploring methodological debates in the history of political thought and in contemporary theory. We will ask, “What is the best approach to analyzing and evaluating political phenomena?” considering as possible answers utilitarian, Kantian, Marxian, feminist, and poststructuralist approaches. We will engage in debates about key concepts in the field, as well, devoting one week each to the study of power, freedom, equality, justice, and democracy.