Political philosophy

[Anicca Writes]

Hello everyone,

I am planning to apply to a p.hd course in the U.S next year. I have completed my B.A(H) in Political Science and M.A in Development Studies(Both from India). I am planning to apply to a p.hd course in political science and finding it hard to track down options for my research area. I am keen to work in the area of political philosophy with an emphasis on exploring relationships between justice and populism. Also, I am keen on doing more theoretical research with a qualitative orientation rather than quantitative. Since most of the political science departments have a quantitative orientation, I was wondering if anyone could suggest me the names of the universities where I might be able to find Profs who have similar interests and orientation. Also, If someone could suggest me how I should approach them, it would be really helpful.

Thanks..

Abhishek

[wtncffts]

If you're doing political philosophy, I don't think the qualitative/quantitative distinction really affects you much, if at all. You will probably have to pass a basic methods course,but that's it. As for schools, I don't have any specific advice, but a good place to start would be to look up the authors of articles or books which have influenced your interests, and look into those programs.

[maicondouglas]

Hello everyone,

I am planning to apply to a p.hd course in the U.S next year. I have completed my B.A(H) in Political Science and M.A in Development Studies(Both from India). I am planning to apply to a p.hd course in political science and finding it hard to track down options for my research area. I am keen to work in the area of political philosophy with an emphasis on exploring relationships between justice and populism. Also, I am keen on doing more theoretical research with a qualitative orientation rather than quantitative. Since most of the political science departments have a quantitative orientation, I was wondering if anyone could suggest me the names of the universities where I might be able to find Profs who have similar interests and orientation. Also, If someone could suggest me how I should approach them, it would be really helpful.

Thanks..

Abhishek

Abhishek, I know of people who largely avoided quantitative work, but be aware that you will be expected to complete coursework In stats/methods regardless of your research plans. I've also heard that the quant section of your GRE is an important peice of your application even if you plan to study political philosophy, so be sure to prepare for this when you apply.

[paleostraussian]

The Political Philosophy folks I know mostly applied to a pretty small number of schools, including but not limited to: University of Dallas, Toronto, University of Texas at Austin, Claremont, Notre Dame, Baylor, and Boston College. I only applied to schools from this pool, but I'm sure there are others I'm not thinking of. Good luck!

[action]

The Political Philosophy folks I know mostly applied to a pretty small number of schools, including but not limited to: University of Dallas, Toronto, University of Texas at Austin, Claremont, Notre Dame, Baylor, and Boston College. I only applied to schools from this pool, but I'm sure there are others I'm not thinking of. Good luck!

These programs are all well and good if you aim to partake in the narrow subspecies of political 'philosophy' known as Straussianism (and do note that unless you're in a philosophy dept or you're a Strassian your professional title will be 'political theorist' rather than 'philosopher').

To the OP, your stated research interests seem a bit broad. 'Justice' is a buzzword across a variety of theoretical disciplines. Are there any particular authors you have in mind? Who's work is exciting you? Are there any particular traditions you identify with? These things will have significant bearing on what program is most suitable to your interests.