Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/moral-politics
In today’s politically charged environment, understanding the moral basis of political authority is more critical than ever. The Coursera course, “Moral Foundations of Politics,” delves into this intriguing subject, challenging students to contemplate when governments merit our support and when they do not.
The course kicks off with an introduction from the instructor, providing an overview of what students can expect. It sets a solid foundation for the course’s unique approach to political theories. Within the curriculum, you will journey through pivotal political theories that originated during the Enlightenment, including Utilitarianism, Marxism, and the Social Contract Tradition.
One of the standout modules is the examination of Enlightenment Political Theory, where students grapple with profound questions about the legitimacy of government, using historical examples like the Third Reich to stimulate debate. This sets a compelling tone for the course, prompting you to think critically about political legitimacy.
Following this, the course dives into Utilitarianism, presented through both classical and neoclassical lenses. Professor Shapiro’s ability to link historical perspectives to modern political debates is enlightening, making it relatable and relevant to today’s societal issues.
A significant portion of the course is dedicated to Marxism, where you’ll explore its core tenets and its impact on the development of capitalist theory. The discussions about the weaknesses of Marxism invite students to question the efficacy of current socio-economic structures.
The Social Contract Tradition is masterfully dissected over two modules, enhancing your understanding of its historical roots and contemporary relevance. The iterations of the social contract will resonate with learners, generating discussions that tie back to the foundational ideas of democracy and governance.
Further, the Anti-Enlightenment Politics module challenges students to consider the reactions against Enlightenment principles, juxtaposing classical theories with modern interpretations. It’s fascinating to see how political thought has evolved and its implications on contemporary governance.
Lastly, the module on Democracy rounds out the course by exploring its justifications, intricately linking these ideas back to the Enlightenment and Anti-Enlightenment discourse.
Overall, “Moral Foundations of Politics” on Coursera is a meticulously structured course that invites both beginners and seasoned political enthusiasts to engage with complex theories while encouraging critical thinking about morality, governance, and democracy. I highly recommend this course for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of political theory and its role in our contemporary world.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/moral-politics