The first half of my Introduction to Political Science course deals with normative theory, in particular the theories underlying the American method of organizing a polity. I agree with C.B. MacPherson that Locke's Second Treatise provided the “title deeds” of the liberal state and is a crucial part of American thinking on politics, the individual, and the state. Madison's Federalist #10 is an extension of Locke into the practical matters of organizing a new constitution. This essay describes the classroom use of games, lecture and discussion to introduce students to these theorists.

The course begins with Madison, mainly because students can understand and apply the concepts of the entire argument much more quickly. The successful use of games and exercises in the classroom requires an immediate start to student participation, an active expectation of student roles in the course. Two hours of class time is sufficient to discuss and review Madison's argument. Time is spent on its implications for the role of the individual, the state, and the dynamics of politics.