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Alexander Guerrero
What is the purpose of government? Why should we have a State? What kind of State should we have?
Read more
What is the purpose of government? Why should we have a State? What kind of State should we have?
Read more
What is the purpose of government? Why should we have a State? What kind of State should we have?
Even within a political community, there may be sharp disagreements about the role and purpose of government. Some want an active, involved government, seeing legal and political institutions as the means to solve our most pressing problems, and to help bring about peace, equality, justice, happiness, and to protect individual liberty. Others want a more minimal government, motivated, perhaps, by some of the disastrous political experiments of the 20th Century, and the thought that political power is often just a step away from tyranny. In many cases, these disagreements arise out of deep philosophical disagreements.
All political and legal institutions are built on foundational ideas. In this course, we will explore those ideas, taking the political institutions and political systems around us not as fixed and unquestionable, but as things to evaluate and, if necessary, to change. We will consider the ideas and arguments of some of the world’s most celebrated philosophers, including historical thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Immanuel Kant, Mary Wollstonecraft, and John Stuart Mill; and more contemporary theorists such as Elizabeth Anderson, Isaiah Berlin, Thomas Christiano, Frantz Fanon, Amy Gutmann, Friedrich Hayek, Robert Nozick, Martha Nussbaum, Julius Nyerere, Ayn Rand, John Rawls, Peter Singer, and Kok-Chor Tan.
The aim of the course is not to convince you of the correctness of any particular view or political position, but to provide you with a deeper and more philosophically-informed basis for your own views, and, perhaps, to help you better understand the views of those with whom you disagree.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Unit 1: Introduction to Part I of the Course
An introduction to Part I of the course and to some of the fundamental problems in legal and political philosophy.
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Syllabus
Unit 1: Introduction to Part I of the Course
An introduction to Part I of the course and to some of the fundamental problems in legal and political philosophy.
Read more
Unit 2: Happiness and Welfare
Why should we have a State? This unit examines answers that focus on the role for legal and political institutions in promoting happiness, peace, stability, and human flourishing.
Unit 3: Justice
Why should we have a State? This unit examines answers that focus on the State’s role in bringing about justice, introducing and analyzing four different views of justice.
Unit 4: Equality
Why should we have a State? This unit examines answers that focus on the importance of equality. It introduces and analyzes views of equality as a constraint, and views of equality as a societal or political objective.
Unit 5: Freedom
Why should we have a State? This unit examines answers that focus on the importance of freedom, including discussion of the way in which the State can be a threat to freedom, and the way in which the State can promote or protect our freedom.
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Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines foundational ideas that form the basis of political and legal institutions
Features discussion from celebrated philosophers
Develops understanding of the role of government in promoting happiness, peace, stability, and human flourishing
Analyzes four different views of justice
Introduces and analyzes views of equality as a constraint and as a societal or political objective
Examines the way in which the State can be a threat to freedom and the way in which the State can promote or protect freedom
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Save Revolutionary Ideas: Utility, Justice, Equality, Freedom to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 Revolutionary Ideas: Utility, Justice, Equality, Freedom with these
activities:
Review Principles of Political Philosophy
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of political philosophy can strengthen your foundation for this course, which explores the fundamental ideas and arguments of political and legal institutions.
Browse courses on
Political Philosophy
Show steps
-
Read introductory texts on political philosophy.
-
Review your notes or summaries from previous courses or readings on political philosophy.
-
Discuss key concepts and arguments with peers or a mentor.
Follow Tutorials on Utilitarianism
Show steps
This course briefly covers utilitarianism, but following tutorials can provide a more in-depth understanding of its principles and applications.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
-
Search for online tutorials or courses on utilitarianism.
-
Choose a reputable source and complete the tutorial.
-
Take notes and summarize the key concepts of utilitarianism.
-
Apply utilitarian principles to real-world examples.
Read Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes
Show steps
Reading Leviathan can provide a deeper understanding of the arguments for a strong central authority, which is a key topic explored in this course.
View
Gateway to the Social Contract
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes of key arguments and ideas.
-
Summarize the main arguments of the book in your own words.
-
Discuss the book's ideas with others to gain different perspectives.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Host a Study Group on the Social Contract Theory
Show steps
Leading a study group on social contract theory can reinforce your understanding of the concept and facilitate deeper discussions with peers.
Browse courses on
Social Contract Theory
Show steps
-
Gather a group of peers who are interested in discussing social contract theory.
-
Choose a specific text or topic related to social contract theory for discussion.
-
Prepare discussion questions and materials to guide the session.
-
Facilitate the discussion and encourage participation from all members.
Analyze Case Studies on Government Overreach
Show steps
This activity provides an opportunity to apply the concepts learned in the course to real-world scenarios, strengthening your understanding of the limits of government power.
Browse courses on
Civil Liberties
Show steps
-
Gather case studies of alleged government overreach.
-
Analyze the cases using the principles and theories discussed in the course.
-
Write a report summarizing your findings and conclusions.
Design a Political System for a Fictional Society
Show steps
This activity challenges you to apply the theories and principles learned in the course by creating your own political system, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of governance.
Browse courses on
Political Theory
Show steps
-
Identify the values and principles that will guide your political system.
-
Research different types of political systems and their advantages and disadvantages.
-
Design the structures and institutions of your political system.
-
Write a report or presentation outlining your design and its rationale.
Review Principles of Political Philosophy
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of political philosophy can strengthen your foundation for this course, which explores the fundamental ideas and arguments of political and legal institutions.
Browse courses on
Political Philosophy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read introductory texts on political philosophy.
- Review your notes or summaries from previous courses or readings on political philosophy.
- Discuss key concepts and arguments with peers or a mentor.
Follow Tutorials on Utilitarianism
Show steps
This course briefly covers utilitarianism, but following tutorials can provide a more in-depth understanding of its principles and applications.
Browse courses on
Utilitarianism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online tutorials or courses on utilitarianism.
- Choose a reputable source and complete the tutorial.
- Take notes and summarize the key concepts of utilitarianism.
- Apply utilitarian principles to real-world examples.
Read Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes
Show steps
Reading Leviathan can provide a deeper understanding of the arguments for a strong central authority, which is a key topic explored in this course.
View
Gateway to the Social Contract
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, taking notes of key arguments and ideas.
- Summarize the main arguments of the book in your own words.
- Discuss the book's ideas with others to gain different perspectives.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Host a Study Group on the Social Contract Theory
Show steps
Leading a study group on social contract theory can reinforce your understanding of the concept and facilitate deeper discussions with peers.
Browse courses on
Social Contract Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather a group of peers who are interested in discussing social contract theory.
- Choose a specific text or topic related to social contract theory for discussion.
- Prepare discussion questions and materials to guide the session.
- Facilitate the discussion and encourage participation from all members.
Analyze Case Studies on Government Overreach
Show steps
This activity provides an opportunity to apply the concepts learned in the course to real-world scenarios, strengthening your understanding of the limits of government power.
Browse courses on
Civil Liberties
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather case studies of alleged government overreach.
- Analyze the cases using the principles and theories discussed in the course.
- Write a report summarizing your findings and conclusions.
Design a Political System for a Fictional Society
Show steps
This activity challenges you to apply the theories and principles learned in the course by creating your own political system, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of governance.
Browse courses on
Political Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the values and principles that will guide your political system.
- Research different types of political systems and their advantages and disadvantages.
- Design the structures and institutions of your political system.
- Write a report or presentation outlining your design and its rationale.
Career center
Learners who complete Revolutionary Ideas: Utility, Justice, Equality, Freedom will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Ethics Professor
Ethics Professor
Ethics professors teach about the nature of morality and ethics, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring ethics professors the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political scientists study the theory and practice of politics, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring political scientists a solid foundation for their research and teaching.
Philosopher
Philosopher
Philosophers study the nature of reality, knowledge, and morality, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring philosophers the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts help develop and evaluate public policies, so a deep understanding of the philosophical foundations of government is essential for success in this role. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories and debates in political philosophy, which will be invaluable for policy analysts.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers need to have a strong understanding of the legal and political systems they work within. This course provides a deep dive into the foundational ideas and arguments of legal and political philosophy, which will give aspiring lawyers a solid foundation for their legal careers.
Political Consultant
Political Consultant
Political consultants work with candidates and political organizations to help them win elections and pass legislation. A deep understanding of the philosophical foundations of government is essential for success in this role. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories and debates in political philosophy, which will be invaluable for political consultants.
Public Administrator
Public Administrator
Public administrators work to implement and manage public policies, so a deep understanding of the philosophical foundations of government is essential for success in this role. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories and debates in political philosophy, which will be invaluable for public administrators.
Judge
Judge
Judges must be well-versed in the principles of justice and equality, as well as the limits of government power. This course explores these topics in depth, providing judges with a strong foundation for making fair and impartial decisions.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study society and social behavior, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring sociologists the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Politician
Politician
Politicians help shape the laws and policies that affect every facet of society, making this course a great asset to any aspiring candidate. The course will provide a deep understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of government and the role it plays in promoting happiness, justice, equality, and freedom. This knowledge will be invaluable in navigating the complex political landscape and making informed decisions that benefit the public.
Historian
Historian
Historians study the past in order to understand the present and the future, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring historians the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring economists the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit managers need to be able to understand and navigate the political and legal landscape in order to effectively lead their organizations. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring nonprofit managers the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists need to be able to analyze and interpret political events and issues, and a strong understanding of political philosophy is essential for this. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring journalists the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Activist
Activist
Activists work to bring about social and political change, and a strong grounding in political philosophy is essential for success in this field. This course provides a deep dive into the major concepts and theories of political philosophy, which will give aspiring activists the tools they need to make a difference in the world.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/o87rk9/revolutionary
Reading list
We've selected 23 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
Revolutionary Ideas: Utility, Justice, Equality, Freedom.
Classic work of political philosophy that offers a powerful defense of liberalism. It argues that liberalism is the only political theory that can accommodate the diverse and conflicting values of a pluralistic society.
Rawls considers the concepts of justice and fairness and elaborates the framework for a just society. is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals, and it adds more depth to the existing course.
Save
Classic work of political philosophy that offers a powerful defense of liberalism. It argues that liberalism is the only political theory that can accommodate the diverse and conflicting values of a pluralistic society.
Classic work of moral philosophy that explores the nature of happiness and the good life. It is one of the most important works of philosophy ever written, and it continues to be studied and debated today.
Classic work of political philosophy that explores the nature of the state and the relationship between the individual and the state. It is one of the most influential works of philosophy ever written, and it continues to be studied and debated today.
Classic work of political philosophy that explores the nature of the state and the relationship between the individual and the state. It is one of the most influential works of philosophy ever written, and it continues to be studied and debated today.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the different theories of justice that have been developed over the centuries. It offers a critical assessment of these theories, and it argues for a pluralistic approach to justice that takes into account the different perspectives of different individuals and cultures.
In this seminal text, Dworkin presents interesting perspectives on the principles of justice and provides an insightful analysis of the concept of equality. It offers more depth and breadth to the existing course.
Explores the key concepts of justice and fairness. It offers a clear and concise overview of the different theories of justice, and it provides a framework for thinking about the ethical dilemmas that arise in everyday life.
Explores the concept of equality and argues that there is no single, universal definition of equality. It offers a nuanced and sophisticated account of the different ways in which equality can be understood and applied.
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Zakaria analyzes the concept of freedom and its challenges in contemporary societies, exploring the tensions between liberalism and illiberalism. offers a timely and relevant perspective.
Argues that freedom should be understood as autonomy, or the ability to act according to one's own values and desires. It offers a powerful critique of the traditional view of freedom as non-interference.
Argues for the principle of equality and explores its implications for public policy. It would be a useful supplement to the course for students who are interested in the topic of equality.
Provides an introduction to the political theory of John Rawls. Rawls's theory of justice is one of the most influential theories of justice in the world today, and this book would be a useful supplement to the course for students who are interested in learning more about it.
Save
Explores the intersections of race, gender, and class in American society. It would be a useful supplement to the course for students who are interested in the topic of social justice.
Van Parijs explores the concept of equality, examining various theories and their practical implications. adds more depth to the existing course material.
Noddings introduces the ethics of care approach, emphasizing its significance in personal, political, and global contexts. offers a fresh perspective on ethical theories.
Explores the concept of post-colonialism and its implications for the world today. It would be a useful supplement to the course for students who are interested in the topic of global justice.
Classic work of economics that offers a powerful defense of capitalism. It argues that capitalism is the only economic system that can promote economic growth and prosperity.
Classic work of political science that explores the nature of democracy and its critics. It offers a powerful defense of democracy, and it argues that democracy is the only political system that can protect individual rights and freedoms.
Powerful defense of libertarianism, the political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of individual liberty. It argues that the only legitimate role of the state is to protect individual rights.
Save
Explores the concept of freedom and its implications for human life. It would be a useful supplement to the course for students who are interested in the topic of freedom.
Save
Provides a clear and concise overview of utilitarianism, one of the most influential ethical theories in the Western tradition. It explains the basic principles of utilitarianism, and it discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the theory.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/o87rk9/revolutionary
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Effort
20 hours of videos and quizzes
Level
Introductory
Via
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Institution
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Instructor
Alexander Guerrero
Language
English
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Good to know
Examines foundational ideas that form the basis of political and legal institutions
Features discussion from celebrated philosophers
Develops understanding of the role of government in promoting happiness, peace, stability, and human flourishing
Analyzes four different views of justice
Introduces and analyzes views of equality as a constraint and as a societal or political objective
Examines the way in which the State can be a threat to freedom and the way in which the State can promote or protect freedom
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