Franz Kafka's writing is known for exploring the absurdities of modern bureaucracy, but it is so much more than that. His stories act as a form of mythology for the modern industrial age, employing dream logic to explore the relationships between systems of arbitrary power and the individuals caught up in them. The humor rooted in the nonsensical logic of Kafka's situations is accompanied by a bleakness that reflects our own shortcomings back at us. By fine-tuning our attention to the absurd, Kafka reminds us that the world we live in is one we create and have the power to change for the better. Learning more about Kafka's work can benefit students intellectually by expanding their understanding of the power dynamics at play in society, and practically by helping them navigate the increasingly convoluted systems of administration that have real consequences on every aspect of our lives.

Philosophy is a field that explores the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. It's a fascinating subject that has been around for centuries and continues to captivate people's minds today. If you're someone who loves to think deeply about the world and the big questions of life, then a career in Philosophy might be perfect for you! As a philosopher, you'll have the opportunity to delve into some of the most intriguing and thought-provoking topics out there. You'll explore the meaning of life, the nature of consciousness, and the relationship between mind and body. You'll also have the chance to examine ethical dilemmas and explore the role of morality in society. In terms of duties, philosophers often teach and conduct research in universities and colleges. They may also work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or think tanks. Some philosophers specialize in areas like epistemology, metaphysics, or ethics, while others branch out into related fields like law, journalism, or public policy. To become a philosopher, you'll typically need an undergraduate degree in Philosophy or a related field. Popular majors include Philosophy, Political Science, and History. You may also choose to pursue a graduate degree in Philosophy, which can open up even more opportunities for research and teaching. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Philosophy include a love of learning, critical thinking skills, and strong communication abilities. You'll need to be able to write and speak clearly and persuasively, as well as think creatively and analytically. Job prospects in Philosophy are generally quite good, with many opportunities available in academia, government, and the private sector. Some notable employers include the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and major consulting firms like McKinsey & Company. So if you're looking for a career that will challenge you intellectually and allow you to explore some of the most profound questions of our time, consider a career in Philosophy. Who knows, you may just uncover some of the answers to life's biggest mysteries!

"Lord of the Flies" by William Golding is a literary classic that explores universal themes of morality, civility, and society. The novel satirizes conventions of its time and long-held beliefs about humanity, while also turning the colonialism trope on its head. The story follows a group of British schoolboys who are stranded on an island and must fend for themselves without adult authority. As they struggle to establish order and leadership, their darker urges and violent tendencies take over. The novel raises questions about the roots of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power. Reading "Lord of the Flies" will challenge your understanding of morality and society and encourage you to reflect on your own values.

Moral relativism is the idea that what is right in one culture may be wrong in another, and there is no way to judge between the two. This means that different people have different moral rules and social customs, and there is no absolute truth of the matter. While this non-judgmental relativism might seem attractive, it can be problematic. For instance, in Nazi Germany, it became socially acceptable to treat Jews, homosexuals, and Gypsies as less than human. A relativist would have to say that this was 'right' for Nazi Germany. Some people go even further and say that everything is relative, including truth. However, the problem with this sort of relativism is that the theory itself would have to be relative. Learning about moral relativism and its limitations can help you develop critical thinking skills and make informed decisions about moral issues.

Law is not just about reading and memorizing laws and regulations, but it is also about understanding the philosophy behind it. Textualism and purposivism are two distinct and opposing schools of thought when it comes to interpreting laws and the Constitution. Textualism is a method of interpretation that focuses on the plain meaning of the text in question. According to textualists, the words used in the law should be given their ordinary meaning and judges should not try to find any hidden meaning in the text. They believe that the purpose of the law should not be considered when interpreting it. Purposivism, on the other hand, is a method of interpretation that considers the purpose behind the law in addition to the text. Purposivists believe that the purpose of the law should be taken into account when interpreting it and that judges should look beyond the plain meaning of the text to understand why the law was created in the first place. Justice Scalia, a leading textualist, argued that textualism is necessary to ensure stability and predictability in the law. He believed that if judges were allowed to consider the purpose behind the law, they would have too much discretion and the law would become too subjective. However, purposivists like Justice Breyer argue that textualism can lead to absurd and unjust results and that considering the purpose of the law is necessary to ensure that the law is fair and just. So, which approach is the right one? The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer. Both textualism and purposivism have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach depends on the specific case and the context in which it is being applied.

In a world of chaos and violence, how can we prevent ourselves from descending into anarchy? Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan explores this timeless question, arguing for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law. Shocking his contemporaries, Hobbes' work of political philosophy opened up questions about statecraft and society that still influence governments worldwide. This fully revised edition includes a new introduction, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the nature of power and governance. Recommended for political science students, policymakers, and anyone interested in the nature of power and governance, Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan offers a thought-provoking analysis of the role of the state in preventing anarchy. Its insights into the nature of society and the need for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law have influenced governments worldwide. This book also has relevance to those interested in philosophy, history, and law, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of statecraft.

Some philosophers have argued that attaching a "gender" component to the "affordance theory" may shed light on the causes of household labor inequality. The study argues that men and women are trained by society to see different possibilities for action in the same domestic environment, leading to unequal distribution of household chores. The authors believe that societal interventions, such as extended paternal leave, can alter these deep-seated gender divides.

Metaphors are all around us, shaping our beliefs, attitudes, and actions in ways we don't even realize. They make the world "sting and tingle," bringing color and meaning to everyday life. But not everyone is a fan. Philosopher Thomas Hobbes compared the use of metaphors to lying. However, many of us use metaphors to express anything abstract. They help us understand complex ideas like heartbreak and time. But metaphors also play a huge role in political framing and social issues. The words we choose affect how we perceive and deal with these issues, potentially affecting our laws, politics, and treatment of each other. So, knowledge of metaphors is power. By exploring and understanding metaphors, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and potentially impact it positively.

Dive into the fascinating world of legal philosophy with "Exploring Law's Empire". This collection of essays offers a comprehensive examination of Ronald Dworkin's groundbreaking work in the field of constitutionalism and the philosophy of law. Leading legal theorists delve into Dworkin's criticism of legal positivism, his theory of law as integrity, and his contributions to constitutional theory. The book also includes a lengthy response from Dworkin himself, offering further insights into his positions on the central questions of legal and constitutional theory. Whether you're a student or scholar, "Exploring Law's Empire" is the perfect companion for a deep dive into this complex and intriguing subject. Recommended for law students, legal scholars, and anyone interested in the philosophy of law and constitutionalism, "Exploring Law's Empire" offers a comprehensive examination of Ronald Dworkin's work in these fields. The collection of essays provides a detailed analysis of Dworkin's criticism of legal positivism, his theory of law as integrity, and his contributions to constitutional theory. The book is an ideal companion for students and scholars embarking on a study of Dworkin's work, providing a thorough understanding of his positions on the central questions of legal and constitutional theory. Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in law or simply curious about the subject, "Exploring Law's Empire" is a must-read.

"Have you ever wondered what drives someone to commit a crime? What goes through the mind of a murderer? And what kind of society breeds such people?" These are the questions that Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoyevsky explores in his classic novel, "Crime and Punishment." Through the story of a young law student who commits a heinous act, Dostoyevsky delves into complex themes of morality, social critique, and the human psyche. As you read, you will be transported to the underbelly of 19th-century Saint Petersburg and introduced to a cast of characters whose moral innocence stands in stark contrast to the depravity of those around them. But beyond the thrilling plot, "Crime and Punishment" offers a deeper understanding of the human condition and the consequences of our actions. By exploring these themes, you will gain valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and the world around us.

In this video clip, we learn about the birthplace of democracy, ancient Athens, and how they practiced direct democracy through never-ending referendums. We also hear from Plato, one of the most famous thinkers in history, who believed that the best form of government is aristocracy, ruled by the best-educated individuals who make wise decisions for society. While his views were classist, Plato's key message is to make just, prudent, and wise decisions based on virtue, rather than letting passion guide our decisions. Learning about these academic concepts can benefit students intellectually by expanding their knowledge of history and philosophy, and practically by helping them develop critical thinking skills and the ability to make informed decisions. So, let's explore these ideas and strive to make wise decisions based on virtue, just like Plato's selfless aristocrats.

The social contract is a concept that has evolved over time and shaped the way that societies have functioned for centuries. This idea is based on the premise that individuals must give up some of their individual rights in exchange for the protection and security provided by a larger governing body. Throughout history, the social contract has been a topic of great debate and discussion. In the 17th century, philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke wrote extensively on the social contract, with Hobbes believing that the state should have absolute power over its citizens, and Locke arguing that individuals have natural rights that the state must respect. In modern times, the social contract has been shaped by a number of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and the rise of multicultural societies. Immanuel Kant, a German philosopher, made significant contributions to the field by arguing that the social contract should be based on universal principles of justice, such as the categorical imperative, which requires individuals to act in ways that can be universally applied. John Rawls, a 20th-century American philosopher, also made important contributions to the social contract. He argued that the social contract should be based on the principles of justice as fairness, which require individuals to treat each other fairly and impartially. Rawls believed that the social contract should be structured in such a way to work to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged members of society. There have been numerous contributions to the field of the social contract by leading academics such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Immanuel Kant, and John Rawls. Each of these thinkers has brought their own unique perspectives and ideas to the table, adding to the rich history of the social contract and shaping the way it is understood and applied today.

Did you ever think that being rude or indulging in gossip might actually have hidden virtues? In "The Virtues of Our Vices," philosopher Emrys Westacott explores everyday ethical questions and offers surprising answers. He argues that tasteless humor can alleviate existential anxieties, gossip can foster intimacy between friends, and rudeness can sometimes be necessary to convey an important message. This engaging and funny book challenges us to rethink conventional wisdom when it comes to moral behavior. Recommended for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of everyday ethical behavior, "The Virtues of Our Vices" offers a fresh perspective on common vices such as rudeness, snobbery, and gossip. This book is particularly relevant for students of philosophy, psychology, sociology, and communication studies. It may also be of interest to professionals in fields such as counseling, journalism, or public relations, who deal with ethical dilemmas on a daily basis. Finally, anyone curious about the hidden virtues of our vices will find this book a thought-provoking and entertaining read.

In "The Republic," Plato takes us on a journey through a dialogue between Socrates and three individuals, exploring the idea of the perfect community and the ideal individual within it. Through their conversation, they delve into questions of reality, knowledge, and goodness, while also tackling the role of education and gender in society. With the use of allegory, Plato masterfully depicts a state governed by philosopher kings and bound by harmony. This classic text is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, and society's role in shaping individuals. Recommended for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, or sociology, "The Republic" is a timeless classic that explores the idea of a perfect community and the ideal individual within it. With its thought-provoking discussions on the nature of reality, knowledge, and goodness, this book is sure to appeal to students of philosophy, while its exploration of education and gender roles in society makes it relevant to those studying sociology. Additionally, the book's insights into politics and the role of government are sure to appeal to anyone interested in political science. Overall, "The Republic" is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of society and the human experience.

Machiavellianism has become a familiar character type in modern TV dramas and Shakespeare's plays. However, we may have been using the term "Machiavellian" wrong all along. Niccoló Machiavelli's political essay, The Prince, focuses on how to acquire and maintain power rather than exhorting his audience to rule justly and virtuously. The Prince gained a diabolical reputation during the European Wars of Religion, with both Catholics and Protestants blaming Machiavelli for inspiring acts of violence and tyranny committed by their opponents. However, Enlightenment figures like Spinoza saw it as a warning to free citizens of the various ways in which they can be subjugated by aspiring rulers. Machiavelli's brutal honesty sought to shatter popular delusions about what power really entails, laying the foundations for future thinkers to study human affairs based on their concrete realities rather than preconceived ideals. Understanding Machiavelli's ideas can help us understand the complex nature of power and politics in our world.

War crimes are some of the most heinous violations of human rights, and they leave a lasting impact on survivors and their families. The legal response to these crimes has often been slow and inadequate, leading to frustration and a sense of injustice. In this write-up, we will examine the legal system's response to war crimes and its implications for justice. The legal system's response to war crimes involves prosecuting individuals responsible for committing crimes during times of armed conflict. This includes acts such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is the primary institution responsible for prosecuting these crimes on a global level. The response to war crimes has been slow and inadequate in many cases. One example is the ongoing conflict in Syria, where atrocities have been committed for over a decade, yet there have been few prosecutions. Similarly, the trial of former Bosnian Serb military leader Ratko Mladić took over 20 years to reach a verdict. There are several academic concepts that are relevant to understanding the legal system's response to war crimes. One is the principle of complementarity, which states that the ICC should only prosecute cases when national courts are unwilling or unable to do so. Another concept is the doctrine of universal jurisdiction, which allows countries to prosecute individuals for crimes committed in other countries. Several academics have made significant contributions to the field of war crimes and international law. One such academic is Philippe Sands, whose book "East West Street" explores the origins of international law and its connection to the Holocaust. Another is Naomi Roht-Arriaza, whose work focuses on transitional justice and the role of international criminal law in post-conflict societies. The legal system's response to war crimes is complex and often frustrating for those seeking justice. However, through self-directed exploration of this topic, students can gain a deeper understanding of the legal system's strengths and weaknesses and contribute to the ongoing debate about how best to achieve justice for survivors of war crimes.

Aristotle's Treatise on Rhetoric, written over 2,000 years ago, explores the art of persuasion through communication, which is still relevant today. The three types of persuasive speech Aristotle describes are: forensic rhetoric, which establishes facts and judgments about the past; epideictic rhetoric, which makes a proclamation about the present situation; and deliberative rhetoric, which focuses on the future. The latter is the most effective in achieving change and involves three persuasive appeals: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos is how you convince an audience of your credibility, logos is the use of logic and reason, and pathos appeals to emotions. Knowing how to use these rhetorical appeals is essential in persuading others, but also in recognizing when they are being used on you. Understanding and mastering the art of rhetoric can help you communicate more effectively and achieve your goals.

The pandemic has exposed the flaws in America's social contract and its ability to protect all citizens. Political philosopher Danielle S. Allen calls for a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of public decision-makers and citizens to repair the broken contract and build pandemic resilience and justice through good governance and strong bonds of solidarity.

In "The Most Good You Can Do," philosopher Peter Singer introduces readers to the concept of effective altruism, which challenges us to live a fully ethical life by doing the most good we can. Singer argues that we should approach charitable giving with an unsentimental view, supporting organizations that can demonstrate they will do more good with our money or time than other options. Through inspiring stories of people who have embraced effective altruism, Singer shows how living altruistically can lead to greater personal fulfillment than living for oneself. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in making a positive impact on the world. Recommended for students and professionals in fields such as philosophy, ethics, social justice, international development, and non-profit management, "The Most Good You Can Do" challenges us to think critically about how we can make a meaningful difference in the world. Singer's ideas have sparked a new movement in effective altruism, which emphasizes the importance of using our resources to do the most good possible. This book is also relevant for anyone interested in personal growth and fulfillment, as Singer demonstrates how living altruistically can lead to a more meaningful life. Overall, this book is a call to action for anyone who wants to make a positive impact on the world and live a fully ethical life.

Michel Foucault, a French philosopher, is a highly cited thinker of the 20th century. His work is particularly relevant today as it explores knowledge, truth, and power. Foucault believed that language and the structures that underpin it shape the way we see things, and he called this the ‘archaeological method’. He was also interested in understanding social structures and the complicated power dynamics at play, which he called the ‘genealogical’ method. Foucault would be fascinated by social media and how it can offer a voice to marginalized groups and, in some cases, even stir up revolution. However, he would also warn about how social media can trap people in echo chambers and how data harvested from our profiles is being used to control us without our knowledge. Foucault would encourage students to critically analyze the information they consume and to be aware of the power dynamics at play. By doing so, they can become active participants in shaping their own lives and communities.