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.