PHL3510

Political philosophy

Chin Liew Ten

Proposed to be offered next in 1999

8 points
* 2 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: Any two second-year philosophy subjects, unless special permission is given by head of department.

Objectives To clarify and evaluate the foundations and limits of religious toleration and individual freedom in a multicultural society.

Synopsis The subject will focus on the foundations and limits of religious toleration and individual freedom in a multicultural society. We shall examine some of the classics on toleration, Mill's essay On liberty and Locke's A letter concerning toleration, and discuss the extent to which their arguments are relevant to contemporary issues. Does religious toleration imply religious scepticism? Must society have a shared morality, and if so, should it use the criminal law to enforce it? Is cultural diversity desirable, and is it a requirement of justice that we permit or sustain such diversity? Do groups have rights to preserve their way of life, and is there a conflict between group rights and individual liberty?

Assessment Two essays (3000 words each): 50% each
* One essay may optionally be replaced by a 3-hour examination

Prescribed texts

A collection of readings available from the department and on reserve in the Sir Louis Matheson Library