In this first part of Classical Political Thought, we introduce the foundations of political philosophy and examine the ideas of early thinkers who shaped modern political systems, governance, law and justice. The lesson explains what political thought means and explores the debate between Idealism and Realism, before examining key contributions from major classical philosophers.

What you will learn in this video:
1. Definition of Political Thought
2. Idealism vs. Realism
3. Aristotle (384–322 B.C.)
4. Plato (428–347 B.C.)
5. Cicero (106–43 B.C.)
6. Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274)
7. Thomas Hobbes (1588–1679)
8. John Locke (1632–1704)