Can political discourse survive the culture wars? Philosopher Agnes Callard explores how Socratic politics can depoliticize arguments and free our speech. Discover the dangers of self-politicization and the tragedy of those who lack the freedom to inquire. Learn how to distinguish between coercive and illuminating persuasion and why not bullying is harder than it appears. Join the conversation on how we can best live together in a politically charged climate.

Individualism is a double-edged sword that has shaped Western civilization, but also led to the decline of communities . The concept of personal autonomy became the central value of Western society, leading to the principles of one person one vote, civil liberties, and equal rights for all. However, this development has gone hand in hand with the decline of interdependence and solidarity. In other cultures, communal values have traditionally taken precedence, where who you are cannot be separated from the groups you belong to. The benefits of individualism are praised and celebrated when it allows you to be yourself while also being part of society and contributing to it. As a high school student, understanding the balance between individualism and community can help you navigate and understand the world around you, while also allowing you to develop your own identity and contribute positively to society.

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.

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.

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.

Are you interested in exploring the revolutionary ideas that have shaped our society? Karl Marx, a philosopher and historian, is known for his critical thinking and analysis of the social and economic systems of his time. Through his writings, Marx sought to reform the ruling class and promote communism. By exploring Marx's work, you will gain insight into the political and economic theories that have had a profound impact on the modern world. Additionally, reading and reflecting on Marx's ideas will help you develop critical thinking and analytical skills that can benefit you academically and professionally. Why not take the first step towards discovering these ideas by delving into Marx's seminal work, The Communist Manifesto?

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.

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.

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.

Utopianism is the belief in a perfect world, or at least a world designed to be perfect. It may seem like an impossible concept, but it has been around for centuries. Many cultures and religions have myths of a perfect society in the past, and there have been all sorts of ideas about a perfect society. Being a utopianist essentially means being a dreamer, and striving for a better world. While utopianism's main flaw is its obsession with perfection, it is important to at least strive for a better world. Learning about utopianism can help you to understand how people have tried to create perfect societies in the past, and the potential pitfalls of such thinking. It can also inspire you to dream big and work towards a better future. So, don't be afraid to be a dreamer and imagine a better world. Who knows, you might just be the one to make it a reality.

Travel back in time to the Enlightenment era and discover how European thinkers envisioned the future of their continent. Uncover the thoughts of famous philosophers like Rousseau, Voltaire, and Kant, as well as lesser-known voices, in the new book The Idea of Europe: Enlightenment Perspectives. Immerse yourself in debates on political unity, military power, and trade that still ring true today.

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.

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.

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.

Are you looking for insights into China's strategic tradition and universal military truths? Look no further than Sunzi's "Art of War". This military classic has been mined for wisdom by military and business leaders alike, but to truly understand its unique perspective, readers must approach it from the worldview of its author. In this fascinating article from The Conversation, a researcher delves into the Daoist roots of Sunzi's philosophy and explains how understanding the concept of 'shì' and acting with "wúwéi" can help leaders nurture potential and achieve success.

Have you ever wondered what life would be like without the state? The idea of living without rulers may seem strange, but it's been done before. Archaeology shows our ancestors lived in peace for thousands of years before armed rulers appeared. Without the state, life would be less complicated, divisive, and confusing. Poverty would be slashed, and enterprise and innovation would flourish without the regulation that favors large corporations. We would do things voluntarily, and our cooperative and charitable nature would flourish. We could even develop a less rigid justice system that benefits from a reduction in crime and fear. The benefits of learning about the state and its role in society are both intellectual and practical. You'll gain a better understanding of the world around you and how it functions. You'll also be equipped with the knowledge to develop structures that self-govern from the bottom up, evolving as times change. So, let's explore the concept of the state together and see how we can thrive without it!

Are you fascinated by the complexities of religion and its impact on society? Do you have a deep desire to understand the beliefs and practices of different cultures around the world? Then, Religious Studies may be the perfect field of study for you! Religious Studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the diverse aspects of religion, including its history, philosophy, theology, literature, ethics, and social and cultural practices. This field of study is not just about exploring religious beliefs and practices but also about understanding how religion shapes society and human behavior. One of the fascinating aspects of Religious Studies is that it provides a unique opportunity to explore the diverse religious traditions of the world. From the ancient myths of Greece and Rome to the teachings of Buddha and the Quran, Religious Studies offers a broad and diverse range of topics to explore. The field of Religious Studies has also seen some exciting research and innovations in recent years. Scholars in this field have explored the role of religion in politics, the impact of religion on mental health, and the relationship between religion and science. Some of the notable academic figures in this field include Karen Armstrong, Huston Smith, and Elaine Pagels, who have made significant contributions to our understanding of religion and its impact on society. At the undergraduate level, Religious Studies majors typically study various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Students may also choose to specialize in specific areas such as philosophy of religion, ethics, or the study of religion and culture. With a degree in Religious Studies, there are many potential career paths to explore. Graduates may find work in fields such as education, journalism, law, social work, or non-profit organizations. Key industries for prospective future employment include religious organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies. Notable employers in this field include the United Nations, the World Council of Churches, and the American Red Cross. To succeed in Religious Studies, students should possess strong critical thinking skills, a passion for learning about different cultures and religions, and an open mind. A background in history, philosophy, or anthropology can also be helpful in this field. In conclusion, the study of Religious Studies offers a unique and exciting opportunity to explore the diverse religious traditions of the world and their impact on society. With a degree in this field, graduates can pursue a range of fulfilling and meaningful careers, making a positive impact on the world around them.

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.

Xenophobia is the fear and hatred of foreigners, and it has a long history. In today's political climate, it is shaping political debates and causing harm to marginalized groups. Though it is not the same as racism, the two are often related. Xenophobic fears are easy to stir when inequality increases, and the pain felt by the so-called natives is turned onto the foreigner. However, society can tackle this trend by being more equal and providing for all. Learning about xenophobia and its effects can help us understand the world around us and work towards a more inclusive society. By exploring academic concepts like xenophobia, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and the issues that affect us. This understanding can help us become more empathetic and informed citizens, and ultimately lead to a better world for all.

Dante's "Divine Comedy" is a remarkable allegorical imagining of the soul's journey toward God. It's an epic journey that encompasses both the human and the divine, and it's more than just a religious allegory. It's also a witty, scathing commentary on Italian politics. Dante was a soldier and statesman from Florence, who was staunchly faithful to God but often critical of the Roman Catholic Church. He particularly disliked its rampant nepotism and practice of simony, the buying and selling of religious favours such as pardons from sin. Despite its bleak and sometimes violent imagery in "Inferno," the "Divine Comedy" is also a love story. It's a story of Dante's lifelong muse, Beatrice Portinari, who leads Dante through "Paradiso's" concentric spheres of Heaven until he is finally face-to-face with God. Learning about Dante's journey and his commentary on politics will expand your intellectual horizons and inspire you to think critically about the world around you.