Subject Area: Philosophy

This course introduces you to key figures and topics in moral, social, and political philosophy. What makes an action good or bad? What is a morally good life — and why should one try to live one? What do we owe one another? What is justice? What is freedom — both as a moral, and a political concept? What are the foundations of society? What are the moral and political dangers of alienation? You will examine different approaches to these questions from key figures of the Western tradition, such as: Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Mill, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Marx. You will also examine contemporary ethical issues, and explore how fundamental moral and political commitments are articulated in today’s society.