PPES Disciplines
The concept behind the PPES programme is that in order to understand social and human phenomena we must approach them from several complementary disciplinary directions and analytical frameworks. For example political decisions often concern economic matters, and government decisions are often influenced by economic events.
Philosophy
If you are interested in questioning society's basic assumptions and in analysing the moral, political, and religious questions at the heart of our culture you will find philosophy a stimulating subject. Philosophy will train you to question your own assumptions, and someone else's, and to articulate your point of view carefully and thoughtfully.
There has been a strong tradition of philosophical excellence at Trinity College since its foundation. Trinity's department of philosophy is a close-knit, intellectual community of researchers, teachers and students which combines high-quality teaching with expansive research activity.
Political Science
Politics affects us all in our daily lives. It's easy to think of issues that we all have opinions about. Should government tax the rich to try to achieve greater equality? Should it introduce ‘green taxes' in order to protect the environment? Should the amount of money the EU spends on the agricultural sector be cut? How high a priority should third world aid be? Questions such as these, along with analysis of political systems and how democracy works, are at the heart of the study of politics.
Political Science has been an important part of the College's curriculum since 1855 and Trinity is recognised world-wide for its research work on the European Union, comparative politics, international relations and public opinion. It is a vibrant, outward-looking department that combines intensive research activity with the strongest commitment to high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.
Economics
Economic issues dominate the news headlines and have an impact on the lives of individuals and countries. What determines economic growth? Why do financial crises occur? Why are some countries poor, while others enjoy high living standards? Economics blends together theory, data and statistical techniques to help understand economic problems and to make policy recommendations which hopefully will improve the welfare and living standards of our society.
Economics has been an important part of the College's curriculum since 1832 when the Whately Chair of Political Economy was established. The Department of Economics has a strong research record, with a particular emphasis on applied economics. Its main research strengths include international macroeconomics and various areas in applied microeconomics (including international development, energy economics, cultural economics and industrial economics).
Sociology
If you are curious about people and society then Sociology is the course for you. Sociology provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly changing nature of contemporary society. With core themes such as migration, race and gender, conflict studies, digitalisation, identities and employment studies, you will gain a critical global perspective on a variety of social issues.
There has been a rich tradition of sociological education at Trinity College since the 1960s. The department is committed to advancing the understanding of society and to igniting the passion of our students through exceptional teaching and research. It has an active research programme and is recognised internationally for its work on migration, conflict, education and employment.
Back to top