Concepts from Western Political Thought emphasized in the PSIR syllabus:

1. Liberalism:
- Liberalism, a key concept in Western political thought, is given significant emphasis in the PSIR syllabus.
- It encompasses ideas such as individual liberty, limited government, rule of law, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.
- The syllabus focuses on understanding the historical development of liberalism, its various strands, and its relevance in contemporary politics.
- Key thinkers like John Locke, John Stuart Mill, and Isaiah Berlin are studied to grasp the core tenets of liberalism.

2. Marxism:
- Another important concept from Western political thought highlighted in the PSIR syllabus is Marxism.
- The syllabus covers the theories of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, including their critique of capitalism, class struggle, and the idea of a socialist revolution.
- Students explore the historical context in which Marxism emerged and its influence on global politics, especially during the 20th century.

3. Democracy:
- Democracy, as a political system, is extensively studied in the PSIR syllabus, drawing upon Western political thought.
- Students analyze the evolution of democratic ideas, including the contributions of thinkers like Rousseau, Montesquieu, and John Dewey.
- The syllabus delves into concepts such as popular sovereignty, representation, electoral systems, and the role of civil society in a democratic framework.

4. Social Contract Theory:
- The PSIR syllabus also emphasizes the concept of social contract theory, which originated in Western political thought.
- Students explore the works of philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and John Locke, who advocated for the idea of a social contract between the rulers and the ruled.
- The syllabus covers the various interpretations and implications of social contract theory, including its influence on the formation of modern states and the legitimacy of political authority.

5. Feminism:
- Feminism, a Western concept, is given due importance in the PSIR syllabus.
- Students examine the historical development of feminist thought, including the works of Mary Wollstonecraft, Simone de Beauvoir, and Judith Butler.
- The syllabus focuses on understanding gender inequality, women's rights, and the challenges faced by feminist movements in different political contexts.

Overall, the PSIR syllabus incorporates key concepts from Western political thought such as liberalism, Marxism, democracy, social contract theory, and feminism. These concepts help students develop a comprehensive understanding of political ideologies, systems, and movements, enabling them to analyze and critically evaluate political processes and phenomena.