Paternalism: Its Problems and Promise
PHIL 375
Fall 2015
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01
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Although many ethical and political traditions--including Confucianism--embrace the idea that benevolent concern can render legitimate at least some efforts to shape the character or behavior of others, perhaps even when the "shaping" is done by the state, liberalism has long rejected such "paternalism." In this seminar, we will examine arguments for and against various forms of paternalism, including issues like state regulations, "libertarian paternalism," efforts to insist on civility in public discourse, and moral education. Most of the readings will be drawn from current Western philosophy, but lying in the background are Confucian interests in potentially paternalistic values like filial piety, deference, and ritual propriety, as well as arguments from Confucians (and others) against the idea that we are, most fundamentally, atomistic individuals with complete sovereignty over our choices. Students with interests in such issues will be able to explore them in their research projects. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS PHIL |
| Course Format: Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (PHIL)(PHIL-Philosophy)(PHIL-Social Jus) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
| SECTION 01 |
Major Readings: Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
Mill, ON LIBERTY
Sher, AGAINST NEUTRALITY
Thaler and Sunstein, NUDGE
Conly, AGAINST AUTONOMY
Additional articles and book chapters will be made available via Moodle.
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Examinations and Assignments:
One brief essay, one research project and essay, and extensive classroom presentations and participation. |
Additional Requirements and/or Comments:
This is an advanced course in philosophy; at least one previous philosophy course, ideally in moral or political philosophy, is strongly recommended. |
| Instructor(s): Angle,Stephen Times: .M.W... 11:00AM-12:20PM; Location: RUSLSEM; |
| Total Enrollment Limit: 15 | | SR major: 5 | JR major: 5 | | |
| Seats Available: 9 | GRAD: X | SR non-major: 3 | JR non-major: 2 | SO: 0 | FR: X |
| Drop/Add Enrollment Requests | | | | | |
| Total Submitted Requests: 1 | 1st Ranked: 0 | 2nd Ranked: 0 | 3rd Ranked: 0 | 4th Ranked: 0 | Unranked: 1 |
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