2/3 POL133 - Week 1 Lecture
27 February 2025
Introduction to Course Requirements
Importance of accessing course materials and being familiar with unit guide.
Emphasis on having downloaded the unit guide and reading assignments.
Reminder about available library resources for electronic copies of reading materials.
Understanding Trigger Warnings
Discussion of potentially distressing topics in the course: genocide, terrorism, sexual assault.
Recognition of the diversity within the student body and the need for sensitivity in discussions.
Mixed research on the effectiveness of trigger warnings; awareness is key for sensitive topics.
Weekly Topics Overview
Power of Political Ideas
Exploration of conservative vs. liberal perspectives on freedom, equality.
Theory and real-life case studies provided each week to contextualize learning.
Discussion on the agenda and outcomes of various political ideologies, such as libertarianism.
Refugee Issues & International Law
Understanding definitions and protections under international law for refugees.
Importance of awareness regarding the impact of climate change on refugee creation.
Political Culture and Identity
Examination of how identity affects political perception and democracy.
Discussion on lobby groups and special interest groups in influencing politics.
Political Economy and Inequality
Analysis of state and market relationships.
Explanation of democratic elements and inequalities based on ethnicity.
Politics, Power, and Violence
Concepts of politics as a means to avoid violence, as well as the inherent prevalence of violence.
Perspectives on whether violence is inevitable in states.
Global Interconnections
Impact of globalization on politics with examples like COVID-19 and climate change.
Discussion of global commons issues such as transnational challenges and refugee flows.
Positive aspects of globalization, highlighting improved communication technologies.
Assessments Overview
Two workbooks with weekly questions; each requiring a 300-word response.
First workbook due in March, feedback applied to the second.
Instruction on submission policies including the strict late submission policy.
Discussion and Debate Standards
Emphasis on the importance of evidence-based discussion.
University acts as a platform for respectful dialogue on contentious issues.
Requirement of evidence backing for claims made in discussions.
Navigating Emotional and Intellectual Challenges
Acknowledgment of the challenging nature of course topics and potential discomfort.
Importance of open-mindedness in discussions and challenging assumptions.
University Skills Development
Focus on critical thinking skills as essential for navigating information in a complex world.
Discussion on how these skills are sought-after by employers across various fields.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Overview of Murdoch University’s commitment to respecting diverse backgrounds and identities.
Expectations for respectful treatment and accommodations for students.
Plans for additional support services like clothes swaps and free haircuts.
Academic Integrity and Expectations
Reminder of expectations regarding plagiarism and proper citation.
Discussion on the importance of personal writing and original thought.
Success in the Course
Importance of attending lectures, doing readings, and engaging actively.
Recommendations for effective study habits, including writing notes by hand.
Encouragement to stay connected with teaching staff for support.
Professional Behavior and Conduct
Overview of students' expectations regarding behavior during lectures and tutorials.
Reminder about Murdoch’s code of conduct and appropriate use of technology in class.
Encouragement to utilize the university’s safety and emergency app for campus security.