Testimonials
I think it is important that there are people in the working field with this degree, because it allows them to think more in-depth and theoretically about political and societal issues.
- Previous education
- Bestuurskunde/Overheidsmanagement - Avans Hogeschool
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you (in relation to your previous education)?
What I liked most about the specialisation is the normative and theoretical approximation in comparison to the other specialisations, and it is less empirically approached. It allowed us to look at the foundation of politics and the most influential philosophers that were important in that time, and often still are to this day. The Political Theory specialisation is most often a small group of students, who are taught by a small group of teachers. This makes it easy to get in touch with each other.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
The atmosphere in class felt very equivalent. We were often debating about normative subjects, and these debates were always very respectful and pleasant to have. The barrier between students and teachers was also very low, which made it accessible to participate in class.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
What I found most challenging in the Political Theory specialisation is the different way of teaching in comparison to the pre-Master's programme (or the Bachelor's programme). It asks for a lot of preparation and reading to be able to actively participate in class. You hardly get any lectures anymore, but only seminars in small groups in which you actively debate about the subjects you have read about with your fellow peers .
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
The research question of my Master's thesis is ‘How much power should the local government have to achieve just policy and a just division of resources?’.
Why do you think is it important that there are people out there with this degree? What are your plans once have received your Master's degree?
I think it is important that there are people in the working field with this degree, because it allows them to think more in-depth and theoretically about political and societal issues. Political theorists tend to look at the foundations of certain phenomena, which might be a cause for qualitatively good solutions for issues that exist in both politics and society. After receiving my Master's degree, I want to gain experience in the governmental working field to hopefully some day get a job as a political or administrative advisor for a municipality or province.
People with a Political Theory degree have that extra critical thinking attitude, with the capabilities to also substantiate their positions.
- Previous education
- Bachelor Politicologie (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you?
Political Theory is a great Master's if you like to discuss a range of topics, and form critical opinions on those topics. This masters has taught me how to build better arguments, but also how to listen to others, and learn from them. The specialisation is not just learning facts, it is about "why does X happen?" and "what should be happening?". Passive participation is not enough anymore, so everyone is really involved with the subjects. This makes the discussions much more interesting.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
Almost all of the classes are in seminar-form. This means that it is mostly the students who are talking. Everyone is always partaking in the conversation, because it is very accessible to just join in. The teachers are there to help and to make sure that we stick to discussing the actual topic. They know all of our names and are really involved with the programme. We have seminars not only with Political Theory students, but also with students from different specialisations, such as Comparative Politics and the Diversity Master. This way, we can learn from each other, while all focusing on what we personally like the best.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
What I found difficult in the beginning is the amount of reading. For most courses, it is two or three texts a week. But, for most classes we have small assignments which give an incentive to really read it. Because it is necessary, I learnt very quickly how to read efficiently. And, having done the readings actually adds a lot of value to the seminars!
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I am writing my master thesis on the gender perspective of recognition theory. What is so fun about Political Theory is that you can pick any topic you want, if you can relate it to PT. So, this can also relate to other fields such as comparative politics, international relations, or gender and diversity theory.
Why do you think is it important that there are people out there with this degree? What are your plans once have received your Master's degree?
This degree is not only theoretical, even though that is in the name. We get assignments that are very hands-on, such as writing a policy brief or presenting research findings. People with a Political Theory degree have that extra critical thinking attitude, with the capabilities to also substantiate their positions.
The freedom to choose topics that align with my personal interests allows for genuine intellectual immersion and the opportunity to engage with subjects that truly matter to me.
- Previous education
- BSc Political Science & BA Philosophy (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme and why? How has the programme challenged you in relation to your previous education?
What I appreciate about the Political Theory programme is its deep engagement with the essential and profound questions of political existence. It addresses a wide variety of topics, making it broad, versatile, and generalist rather than narrowly specialised. If you are someone who loves philosophy and enjoys being deeply immersed in the foundational issues of politics and society, this is the perfect programme for you! This was exactly the reason I chose this specialisation. The programme really focuses on meaningful and contemporary debates in political theory. Its breadth allows students to connect with topics that matter most to them while simultaneously offering the philosophical and theoretical tools to explore them thoroughly. It invites students to grapple with the ethical dimensions of complex issues, critically examine notions of justice, and cultivate well-reasoned and personal perspectives. The programme doesn’t merely impart knowledge but fosters a reflective mindset that challenges one to interrogate both oneself and the broader world with intellectual rigor.
What sets this programme apart from my previous studies is its remarkable emphasis on creative and analytical expression rather than using standardized testing. I have a passion for writing, and the programme’s structure - where courses often culminate in a substantial paper or essay - resonates deeply with me. The freedom to choose topics that align with my personal interests allows for genuine intellectual immersion and the opportunity to engage with subjects that truly matter to me. It transforms learning into a deeply personal and rewarding journey, rather than a mere accumulation of grades.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
With only twelve classmates in my year, this Master’s programme has an unique atmosphere among its students. It is easy to form genuine friendships and build deeper connections. The small class size fosters an environment where collaboration and open discussion are the norm. This sense of community extends beyond academic settings, creating bonds that enrich both personal and professional life.
Equally remarkable is the relationship with the teaching staff. The relatively small team of teachers ensures familiarity and continuity, as they often teach multiple courses within the programme. This creates an air of approachability. A highlight of the year is the triannual symposium, where students and teaching staff come together to dine and engage in thoughtful discussions about political theory. These symposia are great fun!
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s?
The most challenging aspect of Political Theory has undoubtedly been the Advanced Research Methods class. I find statistics particularly demanding and do not like it that much - so it wasn't the most enjoyable course of the Master's programme. However, while the learning curve is steep, perseverance and consistent effort will yield results!
What is your thesis about?
I am currently preparing to write my Master’s thesis, which will focus on (non)democratic theory, with a particular emphasis on liberal democracy. My research will revolve around several critical questions: Is liberal democracy truly democratic, or is it primarily liberal in nature? Is illiberal democracy a viable concept? And, perhaps most provocatively, can democracy be abolished through democratic means?
Additionally, I intend to explore how populism seems to arise from the inherent tensions within the liberal democratic framework. Populist movements often reject liberal values, such as individual rights and the separation of powers, yet strongly embrace democratic principles like majority rule, popular sovereignty, and the general will. This is evident in their frequent advocacy for binding referenda and forms of direct democracy. My thesis seeks to examine how the liberal and democratic dimensions of our political systems interact - and sometimes conflict - in the face of populist pressures.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
I believe that a degree in Political Science is invaluable because it provides a deep understanding of power, justice, other abstract concepts and the complexities of political systems. It challenges students to engage with thought-provoking and philosophical texts while also equipping them with highly practical skills. These include analytical thinking, the ability to write extensively and effectively and the capacity to critically evaluate complex issues - all of which are highly sought after in many professional fields.
As for my plans after completing my Master’s degree, I am drawn to two potential career paths. Journalism fascinates me as it combines the art of writing with a commitment to uncovering truths about society and politics. At the same time, I am also intrigued by the idea of working behind the scenes in the political arena, such as advising or contributing to the operations of a political party in The Hague. A role at the intersection of these fields, such as press officer or communications advisor, also greatly appeals to me, as it would allow me to merge my interest in writing and communication with my passion for politics.
The Master's is excellent in combining philosophical theories into everyday dilemmas.
- Previous education
- BA Political Science (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme and why?
The Master's programme Political Theory is great for deepening your understanding of a range of topics. In class, we discuss various aspects of society, and argue whether or not the status quo can be seen as just, fair or equal. On top of that, we encounter new theories that try to apply structural changes to society, such as limitarianism, animal ethics or the dismantling of power relations. All of the topics are relevant, engaging and will really activate your critical thinking.
The specialisation is directed into the philosophical topics behind political debates. This can make the discussions somewhat abstract, but at the same time incredibly relevant. Different theories of justice come back in all kinds of debates, i.e. power relations, sustainability or historical injustices. The Master's is excellent in combining philosophical theories into everyday dilemmas.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
The number of people applying for this Master's is usually relatively small. Therefore, in each course you meet roughly the same group of people. This creates an environment where you quickly become familiar with both your peers and professors. The classes are mostly in the form of seminars, in which the students are asked to take an active role.
One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed between this Master’s programme and my Bachelor’s is the level of preparation required. In my Bachelor’s, it was often possible to get away with doing very little before class, but here, being well-prepared is absolutely essential. This expectation applies to everyone, and as a result, the seminars are incredibly substantive.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s?
The Master's can be quite intensive, especially in the second semester. If you want to do an internship or study abroad, most students do not finish their Master's within one year.
The seminars in this Master’s programme require extensive literature reading, which can be quite challenging at times. Each week, we are expected to engage deeply with a variety of texts to prepare for class discussions. While this can be demanding, it’s also incredibly rewarding, as it ensures that everyone comes to the table with well-informed perspectives.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree?
I think it’s important that there are people out there with this degree because it equips us to analyse complex societal and political issues from multiple perspectives. The skills we develop, such as critical thinking and in-depth research, are essential for tackling the challenges of today’s world, whether in policymaking, academia, or other fields.
I found and still find it fascinating what role local government plays.
- Previous education
- Politicologie (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Study end date
Where do you work now and what does your job entail?
I am now active disclosure coordinator at the Ministry of Finance, Directorate General of Customs. I coordinate the implementation of the Woo (Open Government Act). The Act aims to make governments more transparent and should ensure that government information is more findable and exchangeable. Open government is essential in a democracy, journalists and citizens have a right to information. Setting up our organisation that this is done properly and efficiently is my current job.
Why did you choose to work in this field?
After studying Political Theory, I became a trainee at the Province of North Brabant. In two years, I got to know local government (municipality, province and water board). I found and still find it fascinating what role local government plays. Public transport, agriculture, environment, safety, so much happens! Working in public administration is great, there are complex issues, many stakeholders with different interests and in many places the concept of ‘power’ comes into play. A concept that is looked at from all sides in the Master's of political theory.
What did you learn during your studies that you now use in your work?
What I liked about Political Theory as a Master's was its normative nature, how should something be. In an administrative environment, this question always hangs over the heads of administrators: how do we want to shape our society and what conditions must it meet. In the Political Theory lectures, some important concepts for this are discussed. During the Master's, you write a number of lively papers and, of course, a nice thesis, which helps you to reason clearly and defend your views in a well-founded way. In my previous job, I was an administrative adviser, first to a member of the Provincial Executive and later to a state secretary. In that role, you provide an administrator with information, but I also found it important to regularly contradict an administrator or hold up a mirror to him or her. Discussions with fellow students about concepts such as justice, power and populism give you, as a young civil servant, the baggage you need to be able to contradict administrators. There are plenty of people walking around a town hall, county hall or ministry who are only too happy to do exactly what a director asks. Especially in such an environment, a critical political scientist who dares to contradict is of great value.
As a secondary occupation, I write articles for various gardening magazines and the occasional gardening book. I am convinced that writing quite a few papers has really enhanced my writing skills. Gardening and politics also have a lot in common; the garden at Versailles is solely meant to exude power. More recently: in a photo of the G8 summit (if taken outside), a perfect lawn is never far away.
How did you experience this programme at Radboud University?
The Political Theory programme is characterised by its small scale, good and frequent contact with the professors. I have always felt very connected. I have also always found writing papers very useful and the skill of putting something clearly on paper is indispensable in public administration.
What advice do you have for students choosing a Master's programme?
Study what you find interesting. Don't stare blindly at the profession that comes next, employers are looking for interesting people who have something to offer and as a Political Theory student, you will have nice baggage for a great career. And don't forget, it's all about power.
I have always been interested in politics - it's in the blood, it's in my family, in my DNA. I was born that way.
- Nationality
- Dutch
- Programme
- Applied Political Theory
- Country of previous education
- Nederland
Can you introduce yourself?
I am Marcel Wissenburg, a political theorist and philosopher. I started on my PhD in 1990 and gained it in 1994, and I have also been teaching since 1990 - in Nijmegen but also in Wageningen, Groningen, Leiden and Keele (UK). Currently, I am responsible for Introduction to Political Theory (in Dutch, yr 1) and Power & Diversity (English, Master), and I give over half the lectures in Politics, Ethics and Practice (English, yr 3).
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
I have always been interested in politics - it's in the blood, it's in my family, in my DNA. I was born that way.
Two events in particular triggered me (very, very early on): the famine and war in Biafra around 1970 and the coup d'état against Allende in Chile, 1973. I wanted to understand the why rather than the who and how - it all seemed so unreasonable and immoral.
Around 1978 I read the Consolation by Boethius, a politician awaiting execution. From then on I wanted to combine politics and philosophy. Hence ultimately my choice to write a PhD thesis on social justice.
In 1991 I went to my first international academic conference, for which I wrote a paper on environmental justice - seemed like an interesting topic to try once, a bit more innovative than social justice. I made friends for life there, and it turned out to be a career choice. I've been teaching and publishing on political theory in relation to environment, nature, animals and the Anthropocene ever since.
What are you currently doing your own research on?
At the moment, I'm working on two relatively small projects. One I call 'The Body Ecologic' - I'm trying to find out how we can rethink the sphere of politics (once called 'the body politic') as not distinct from but as integral part of the natural environment. The other project, 'Humanity Redux', asks why humanity should (continue to) exist at all.
What advice do you have for students making their study choice?
Choose your Master's programme with your heart - it's the only year in your life when you can do as you like.
What is the best part of working with students?
Seeing (and aiding) the transformation from 'student' to independent, confident professionals.
If applicable: What does your work in practice (outside your role as a lecturer/researcher at Radboud University) bring to your academic work, and vice versa?
I do voluntary work (by providing ideas, arguments, critique) for the scientific bureau of a national political party - and through those activities see how politics really works, which brings a lot of realism to my still quite idealistic research.