Taught at the University of Kansas Spring 2003, Summer 2003, Spring 2004, Summer 2004, Spring 2005
Course description, Summer 2004:
In this class we will attempt an introductory exploration of some of the central issues in social and political philosophy. During the first part of the semester, we will examine the ideas of some key figures in the history of social and political philosophy, reading ancient, modern, and nineteenth and twentieth century texts. The second part of the semester will focus on the application of various views to current issues in social and political philosophy: we will consider questions concerning the extent of personal liberty, civil disobedience, animal rights, affirmative action, economic justice, and the notion of just war. Given the breadth of issues, depth in understanding will be a goal that may at times lead to changes in the reading schedule.