Almost everyone lives in society. But what is a good society and what is a just state? We will find answers in influential works of great political philosopher. This course provides a survey of the issues and problems in the field of social and political Philosophy. The course begins with a brief historical background in reviewing the key elements of the political philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, then turn to the survey of the issues in social and political philosophy in modern philosophy. Upon completion students will develop a better understanding of crucial issues that frame contemporary political debate, including democracy and freedom, power, class and violence, race and gender, etc. The reading materials make heavy demands on their readers’ analytical and interpretive skills. Our discussions and writing assignments will focus on the arguments in these works. Through class discussion and written assignments, the course also aims to develop critical thinking as well as oral and written communication skills.