PHIL.SP21

The need for a critical analysis of the foundations of normative life has become urgent in a context of increasing globalization, the emergence of new forms of conflict and war, high rates of poverty within and across borders and the prospect of environmental devastation. Throughout human history, our “normative commitments” (goals, values, beliefs, ideals, rules, laws) have varied across time, space, and cultures. A consequence of our contemporary globalized age is that we live under a dominant set of normative commitments, making it increasingly difficult to theorize alternative foundations for normative life.

This course will begin by exploring these globally hegemonic normative commitments, and then turn to various historical, cultural, and geopolitical sources which might help us begin to imagine and chart paths for an alternative future. Through analysis of our course readings and engagement with one another, you will critically reflect on what you think ought to be the foundations of normative life. Additionally, you will work to clearly conceptualize, and offer reasoned argumentation for, the normative commitments that are integral for such life. Lastly, you will identify and critically analyze today's key social problems by questioning globally dominant normative commitments that many assume are good, but in fact, are root causes of our current social ills.