Spring PPE School (4 days)
14th-17th February 2013, University of London Union, Bloomsbury, Central London
An intensive four-day course for sixth form students interested in the prestigious Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree. This event is an extended version of our popular PPE weekend, and offers an opportunity to explore all three subjects in greater depth and discuss ideas more thoroughly. Prepare for some heated debate and serious intellectual challenges!
This event is suitable for able and committed sixth form students who are anticipating an A grade in all AS/A Level subjects. Classes run from 10.30 to 4.30 each day.
Download a poster to display in your school here.
2013 Programme
Day 1 – Interdisciplinary Introduction
Using the topic of human rights in theory and in practice we will explore the complex relationship between the academic disciplines of Philosophy, Politics and Economics. From the philosophy of Jeremy Bentham to the radical vision of human rights enshrined in the new constitution of Venezuela students will be examining the basic nature of rights, the conditions necessary for them to be meaningfully exercised, and the question of who (if anyone) should be responsible for their protection.
Day 2 – Philosophy
A full day exploring some of the central questions of epistemology – the philosophy of knowledge – and in particular some well known sceptical hypotheses – theories that question how certain we can really be about things most people take for granted like the existence of the external world or the reality of other minds. Drawing on source material from Descartes’ Meditations to the Matrix, we will try to clarify and systematize our initial intuitive responses to these classic philosophical problems.
Day 3 – Economics
In the morning we will be covering the functions and policies of major international economic institutions from the International Monetary Fund to the World Trade Organisation. In the afternoon we will examine some alternative visions of economic development, from Marx’s original analysis of economic and social progress to Immanuel Wallerstein’s theory of the interaction between core and peripheral economies.
Day 4 – Politics
In the final session of the PPE School we will be looking at some of the big ideas of political theory – liberty, equality and representation – and exploring how different political philosophers and practitioners have tried to put these ideas into practice. Using case studies from contemporary UK politics, as well as from Plato’s Republic to post-apartheid South Africa. Participants will be encouraged to challenge and develop their own understanding of these key political concepts.
Feedback from previous PPE Schools:
‘A brilliant and rigorous introduction to PPE and a great opportunity to discuss and debate with like minded people’
‘It was very enjoyable, definitely aimed at those who have a specific interest in PPE and are keen to broaden their knowledge on subject matter’
‘Really good interaction between tutors and students – everyone was relaxed and friendly’
‘I would highly recommend the PPE School to anyone even vaguely interested in any of these subjects. The tutors are fantastic, the course is riveting and it’s a great chance to meet other people who share your interests.’
‘I really enjoyed the course and it helped me with my interview preparation process’
‘The Autumn PPE school is a brilliant experience. All the tutors and students are so friendly and the tutors engaging and friendly. By the end you are really good friends with all the other students and feel like you have had a learning experience. For any future PPE students this course is ideal for stretching you in all aspects.’
‘I really enjoyed the PPE course as it gave a real insight into what a course at university level would entail. The tutors were brilliant and their passion for their subject clearly shone through. The activities were challenging but fun and there was an emphasis on developing ideas and thoughts rather than simply learning large amounts of material. The people were great and it was a wonderful experience.’
‘I really gained a sense of what PPE is all about, and I am definitely applying!’
Book a place:
The fee for the four-day Spring PPE School is £365 per student. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
The PPE Spring School will be held at the University of London Union, with classes from 10.30 to 4.30 on each day. Please note that this is a non-residential course and accommodation must be arranged independently if required.
If you are applying for a fees bursary please do not fill in the form below, instead please complete the Bursary Application – Student Form.