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Ian Shapiro
When do governments deserve our allegiance, and when should they be denied it?
This course explores the main answers that have been given to this question in the modern West. We start with a survey of the major political theories of the Enlightenment: Utilitarianism, Marxism, and the social contract tradition. In each case, we begin with a look at classical formulations, locating them in historical context, but then shift to the contemporary debates as they relate to politics today.
Read more
When do governments deserve our allegiance, and when should they be denied it?
This course explores the main answers that have been given to this question in the modern West. We start with a survey of the major political theories of the Enlightenment: Utilitarianism, Marxism, and the social contract tradition. In each case, we begin with a look at classical formulations, locating them in historical context, but then shift to the contemporary debates as they relate to politics today.
Read more
When do governments deserve our allegiance, and when should they be denied it?
This course explores the main answers that have been given to this question in the modern West. We start with a survey of the major political theories of the Enlightenment: Utilitarianism, Marxism, and the social contract tradition. In each case, we begin with a look at classical formulations, locating them in historical context, but then shift to the contemporary debates as they relate to politics today.
Next, we turn to the rejection of Enlightenment political thinking, again exploring both classical and contemporary formulations. The last part of the course deals with the nature of, and justifications for, democratic politics, and their relations to Enlightenment and Anti-Enlightenment political thinking.
In addition to exploring theoretical differences among the various authors discussed, considerable attention is devoted to the practical implications of their competing arguments. To this end, we discuss a variety of concrete problems, including debates about economic inequality, affirmative action and the distribution of health care, the limits of state power in the regulation of speech and religion, and difficulties raised by the emerging threat of global environmental decay.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/afr4ge/moral
What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome to Moral Foundations of Politics
Welcome to the course. Meet your instructor and learn about the structure of the course and what makes it distinctive.
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome to Moral Foundations of Politics
Welcome to the course. Meet your instructor and learn about the structure of the course and what makes it distinctive.
Read more
Enlightenment Political Theory
This module explores what makes a government legitimate. More specifically, was the Third Reich illegitimate and was Eichmann breaking some kind of higher law here?
Utilitarianism: Classical and Neoclassical
Classical and neoclassical utilitarianism are examined in this module starting with the historical context. Professor Shapiro then shifts to the contemporary debates as they relate to politics today.
Marxism, Its Failures and Its Legacy
This module on Marx's Enlightenment theory focuses on the foundations of capitalism theory and its major weaknesses.
The Social Contract Tradition I
This module looks at classical formulations of the Social Contract Tradition, locating them in historical context, but then shifts to the contemporary debates as they relate to politics today.
The Social Contract Tradition II
Anti-Enlightenment Politics
This module explores the rejection of Enlightenment political thinking, again exploring both classical and contemporary formulations.
Democracy
This module deals with the nature of, and justifications for, democratic politics, and their relations to Enlightenment and Anti-Enlightenment political thinking.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines Enlightenment and Anti-Enlightenment political theories and ideologies, which are foundational in contemporary political discourse
Develops a comprehensive understanding of utilitarianism, Marxism, and the social contract tradition, providing a strong foundation in Western political thought
Provides contemporary perspectives on classical political theories, demonstrating their relevance to modern issues and debates
Engages with practical implications of political theories, applying them to current issues such as economic inequality and global environmental concerns
Taught by Ian Shapiro, a renowned professor of political science, ensuring high-quality instruction and insights
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Reviews summary
Laying the foundations for understanding politics
Learners say “Moral Foundations of Politics” provides a well-rounded examination of the moral foundations of political ideologies and modern Western governments.
According to students, the course takes a practical approach, examining the origins and foundations of political thought, mixed with interactive lectures and supplemental readings.
The presentations are structured as dialogues between the professor and two students, making the content feel more conversational and accessible. Students praise the professor’s ability to explain complex topics clearly.
The course covers a historical range of thinkers and movements that have shaped current political theory, from ancient Greece through the Enlightenment to contemporary ideas. Reviewers highly recommend this course to anyone interested in politics or political theory, and many say they plan to re-take the course in the future.
The course examines the moral foundations of modern Western governments and their relevance to current events.
"Learners say “Moral Foundations of Politics” provides a well-rounded examination of the moral foundations of political ideologies and modern Western governments."
The course takes a practical approach, examining the origins and foundations of political thought.
"According to students, the course takes a practical approach, examining the origins and foundations of political thought, mixed with interactive lectures and supplemental readings."
The professor is praised for their ability to explain complex topics clearly and concisely.
"Students praise the professor’s ability to explain complex topics clearly."
The course uses an engaging dialogue format, featuring discussions between the professor and two students. This format makes the lectures feel more conversational and accessible.
"The presentations are structured as dialogues between the professor and two students, making the content feel more conversational and accessible."
The course provides a thorough history of the development of political thought. From the ancient Greeks through the Enlightenment to modern ideas, each period's major thinkers are discussed.
"it covers a historical range of thinkers and movements that have shaped current political theory, from ancient Greece through the Enlightenment to contemporary ideas."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Moral Foundations of Politics with these
activities:
Recall key political theories
Show steps
Reviewing key political theories will help you recall concepts essential for understanding the course material.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
-
Read through notes
-
Practice using definitions
-
Create flashcards
Read On Liberty by John Stuart Mill
Show steps
Reading On Liberty will supplement the course material on classical utilitarianism and provide insights into the nature of individual liberty and the limits of state power.
Show steps
-
Read the book, taking notes
-
Summarize key arguments
-
Discuss the book with others
Write a policy memo on a current political issue
Show steps
Writing a policy memo will require you to apply course concepts to a real-world problem and will help you to develop your analytical and communication skills.
Browse courses on
Economic Inequality
Show steps
-
Research the issue
-
Develop policy recommendations
-
Write the memo
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Develop your own political theory
Show steps
Developing your own political theory will require you to grapple with the complex issues raised in the course and will help you to refine your own understanding of politics.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
-
Research theories covered in the course
-
Identify strengths and weaknesses
-
Propose your own political theory
Contribute to an open source project on a related topic
Show steps
Contributing to an open source project will give you hands-on experience with the practical applications of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Democracy
Show steps
-
Find an open source project that is relevant to the course material
-
Join the project and start contributing
-
Collaborate with other developers
Recall key political theories
Show steps
Reviewing key political theories will help you recall concepts essential for understanding the course material.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through notes
- Practice using definitions
- Create flashcards
Read On Liberty by John Stuart Mill
Show steps
Reading On Liberty will supplement the course material on classical utilitarianism and provide insights into the nature of individual liberty and the limits of state power.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book, taking notes
- Summarize key arguments
- Discuss the book with others
Write a policy memo on a current political issue
Show steps
Writing a policy memo will require you to apply course concepts to a real-world problem and will help you to develop your analytical and communication skills.
Browse courses on
Economic Inequality
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the issue
- Develop policy recommendations
- Write the memo
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Develop your own political theory
Show steps
Developing your own political theory will require you to grapple with the complex issues raised in the course and will help you to refine your own understanding of politics.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research theories covered in the course
- Identify strengths and weaknesses
- Propose your own political theory
Contribute to an open source project on a related topic
Show steps
Contributing to an open source project will give you hands-on experience with the practical applications of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Democracy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an open source project that is relevant to the course material
- Join the project and start contributing
- Collaborate with other developers
Career center
Learners who complete Moral Foundations of Politics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems and behavior. Moral Foundations of Politics may be very useful for Political Scientists, as the course explores the core concepts and theories of political science in depth.
Legislator
Legislator
Legislators create and vote on laws. Moral Foundations of Politics may be very useful for Legislators, as it provides a comprehensive overview of political theories and their implications for policymaking.
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Advocates work to protect and promote human rights. Moral Foundations of Politics may be very useful for Human Rights Advocates, as the course explores the philosophical and ethical foundations of human rights and their application in the political arena.
Educator
Educator
Educators teach and support students in their academic and personal development. Moral Foundations of Politics may be very useful for Educators teaching social studies or political science, as the course provides a comprehensive overview of political theories and their implications for education.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations and programs of nonprofit organizations. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Nonprofit Managers working in areas such as social justice or advocacy, as the course explores the ethical and philosophical foundations of political action.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Public Relations Specialists working in the political or public affairs sectors, as the course provides insights into the ethical and political dimensions of public relations.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Policy Analysts as it provides a foundation in ethical and political principles that can help inform policy analysis and recommendations.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics, including social, political, and economic issues. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Researchers working in fields such as political science, sociology, or public policy, as the course provides a solid foundation in political theory and research methods.
Community Organizer
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work to empower communities to address social and economic issues. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Community Organizers, as the course explores the ethical and political dimensions of community organizing and social change.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists report on news and current events. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Journalists covering political topics, as the course provides a solid understanding of political ideologies and their influence on policy and public opinion.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. Moral Foundations of Politics may be particularly useful for Lawyers working in fields such as constitutional law or public interest law, as the course explores the philosophical foundations of government legitimacy and the limits of state power.
Writer
Writer
Writers create content for a variety of purposes, including journalism, fiction, and nonfiction. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Writers covering political topics, as the course provides a deep understanding of political ideologies and their influence on society.
Lobbyist
Lobbyist
Lobbyists represent the interests of organizations or individuals before government officials. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Lobbyists as it provides an understanding of the political process and the role of ethics in lobbying.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers provide support and assistance to individuals and families facing social and economic challenges. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for Social Workers working in areas such as policy advocacy or community organizing, as the course explores the ethical and political dimensions of social welfare.
Political Consultant
Political Consultant
Political Consultants develop and implement political strategies for candidates, political parties, and interest groups. Moral Foundations of Politics may be useful for a Political Consultant because the course discusses various political theories and their contemporary debates, which can help build a foundation for understanding political strategies and decision-making.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/afr4ge/moral
Reading list
We've selected 15 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Moral Foundations of Politics .
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the major political theories of the Western tradition. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of political thought and the different ways of thinking about political problems.
Save
Explores the major theories of justice and their implications for public policy. It thought-provoking read that will challenge students to think critically about the ethical dimensions of political decision-making.
Classic work on the theory and practice of democracy. It provides a clear and concise overview of the different arguments for and against democracy, and it offers a valuable perspective on the challenges facing democratic societies today.
Argues that the world is entering a new era of conflict between different civilizations. It controversial but influential work that has helped to shape the debate about global politics.
Argues that the end of the Cold War marks the end of history as we know it. It provocative and thought-provoking work that has sparked a great deal of debate about the future of humanity.
This classic work of political philosophy argues that the state is necessary to protect us from the dangers of anarchy. It powerful and influential work that has had a profound impact on Western political thought.
This classic work of political philosophy argues that the state is based on the consent of the governed. It foundational work of liberal thought that has had a major impact on the development of democratic institutions.
Save
This classic work of political philosophy argues that the state is based on a social contract between the people and the government. It powerful and influential work that has inspired many revolutions and social movements.
Save
This classic work of Marxist literary theory explores the relationship between language and ideology. It challenging but rewarding read that will help students to understand the role of language in shaping our political and social world.
This classic work of philosophy of science argues that it is impossible to predict the future course of history. It challenging but important read that will help students to understand the limits of our knowledge and the dangers of utopian thinking.
This classic work of philosophy of science argues that scientific progress occurs through a series of revolutions. It challenging but important read that will help students to understand the nature of scientific knowledge and the process of scientific discovery.
This classic work of moral philosophy explores the nature of virtue and the good life. It challenging but rewarding read that will help students to understand the foundations of Western ethical thought.
Save
This classic work of moral philosophy argues that the right action is the one that produces the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. It challenging but important read that will help students to understand the foundations of utilitarianism.
Save
This classic work of moral and political philosophy develops a theory of justice based on the idea of a social contract. It challenging but important read that will help students to understand the foundations of Rawlsian liberalism.
Save
Develops a theory of social justice that is based on the idea of democratic equality. It challenging but important read that will help students to understand the relationship between democracy and social justice.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/afr4ge/moral
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Effort
8 weeks of study, 12-15 hours/week
Via
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Institution
Yale University
Instructor
Ian Shapiro
Language
English
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Good to know
Examines Enlightenment and Anti-Enlightenment political theories and ideologies, which are foundational in contemporary political discourse
Develops a comprehensive understanding of utilitarianism, Marxism, and the social contract tradition, providing a strong foundation in Western political thought
Provides contemporary perspectives on classical political theories, demonstrating their relevance to modern issues and debates
Engages with practical implications of political theories, applying them to current issues such as economic inequality and global environmental concerns
Taught by Ian Shapiro, a renowned professor of political science, ensuring high-quality instruction and insights
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